Help Restore Fairness in American Mensa

A Note from the Organizer

I’m organizing a fundraiser to support members who were removed from the American Mensa Committee (AMC). This effort is focused on advocating for fairness, accountability, and the values that Mensa upholds. All donations will go directly toward funding their legal defense.

A Note from the 10 Members

On January 14, the National Hearings Committee, in collaboration with the American Mensa Chair, removed the majority of American Mensa's board of directors, the AMC. The ten members removed represent 80% of American Mensa members and have contributed to Mensa in innumerable ways for decades, both at the national and local levels. They were also removed from any local group offices.

This decision was based on a newly created classification of "Act Inimical," which is not explicitly outlined in American Mensa’s governing documents or those of Mensa International. Additionally, the process seems to have disregarded certain conflicting Bylaws and did not provide the removed members with what we believe to be a fair and impartial hearing with an independent appeal process, as required by the Mensa Constitution and International Bylaws. We believe these actions also conflict with New York State law, which we are now pursuing legal action to address.

The specific reasons for the removal have not been clearly outlined. No explicit bylaw violation has been cited, no clear harm has been identified, and no official action was taken at the meeting in question. However, the removal has led to significant concerns about transparency and due process within American Mensa.

The ten AMC members were removed after voicing concerns over leadership decisions and advocating for greater transparency and member-focused improvements. The Chair has since announced plans to appoint replacements, a move we believe conflicts with American Mensa Bylaws and New York State law.

The ten removed AMC members have exhausted all internal remedies, legal action is now the only recourse to challenge this decision. Despite a policy that typically provides Directors and Officers Insurance for AMC members, coverage has not been authorized for this case. The ten removed members have already contributed $15,000 toward legal fees, but the anticipated costs are expected to be much higher.

Your contribution, no matter the size, will help us stand up for fairness, transparency, and the integrity of our organization. Contributions will reimburse current legal expenses and fund further action. Any excess funds will be distributed proportionally to the local groups of the contributors. We’ll keep you informed with regular updates on our progress.

If you prefer to donate anonymously, please know that we appreciate your support just the same! Every donation makes a meaningful impact in this important effort. Together, we can uphold the integrity of American Mensa.

Thank you for standing with us!