PWBA meetings as sober spaces?

So I love drinking a lot (Tim and I are obsessed with beer, and I have almost a fully-stocked bar at my apartment), but I also like the idea of our meetings being alcohol- and drug-free. I find that drinking makes me feel spaced out and I can't contribute as much, and it's possible the presence of alcohol and drugs may make some members uncomfortable or be dangerous for them. Thoughts?

For me personally, it depends on the meeting or activity. For serious discussion, every participant should feel like they are able to contribute to the best of their abilities and it's our responsibility to ourselves and to other Permanent wave members to avoid compromising our ability to contribute. For something like a zine making party or a potluck where the expectation is less serious conversation, I think sharing a beer or two contributes to the feeling of camaraderie.

Certainly, if anyone feels like the presence of alcohol or drugs makes our gatherings an unsafe space for them, we should abstain.

I didn't want to say anything but the presence of beer and the comradery around it made me really uncomfortable at the last meeting. I don't want to ruin the fun for others but it did make me question my level of commitment to the group. I feel that it will inevitably turn a percentage of feminists in our community away.

I think if anyone feels uncomfortable with alcohol being present at meetings, then it would be in our best interest to just avoid it. Since we want the meetings to be a safe space for everyone, I think we should definitely listen to those concerns. We can always hang outside of meetings at a bar or at the park if we feel like having a beer with each other!

I agree. I am sober and I am hosting the meeting tomorrow and I would greatly appreciate it if people don't bring alcohol/drugs into my home. Thanks!