On Aug 18, 2012, at 12:55 AM, Siebrand Mazeland (WMF) wrote: > Isn't the friendly space policy[1] something that can be applied here? If > that policy is slightly adapted so that online spaces are also covered, we > don't have to invent YACoC[2]. > > [1] http://wikimediafoundation.org/wiki/Friendly_space_policy > [2] yet another code of conduct > > Cheers! > > Siebrand
The friendly space policy appears to be geared more towards dealing with discrimination and harassment, which isn't really the issue at hand. As far as I can tell, the issue that caused this thread is a perceived lack of diplomacy, tact, and respect in communicating with others in the community. This terseness/lack of respect[1] raises the general level of tension in the community, and contributes to what would be considered a toxic environment for new volunteers. The WMF official code of conduct (http://wikimediafoundation.org/wiki/Code_of_conduct_policy) at least includes some language regarding treating everyone in a respectful manner, but lacks any outlet for complaints or concerns (which the friendly space policy DOES have, which is awesome). As much as I agree that it's good to not re-invent the wheel when we don't have to, I DO think a community code of conduct is something that is worth doing, and not adequately shoehorned into any of the existing publicized policies. Ideally (to me), there should be two parts: first, a community code of conduct identifying behavior we wish to avoid (harassment, discrimination, disrespectful language, accusatory language) AND a laid out course of action for when issues arise (contact the person privately and CC the moderator, or if you feel unsafe doing so, just contact the moderator); second, a general email etiquette guide, that can provide general guidance on how to follow the code of conduct. Something to bear in mind with all of this is that I don't think anyone is trying to act in bad faith here. No one is trying to troll. I think all anyone is really asking for is a bit more consideration in HOW we say things on this list. Thanks, Nabil Maynard [1] Lack of respect is not the same as disrespect (in the same way that amorality is not the same as immorality). With disrespect, it is a lot easier to identify a specific statement that was heinous enough to invoke the drama and ire of others on the list. With a lack of respect, it is much harder to point at any one thing, and it can often end up being justified/excused as being "technically correct." When that happens enough, though, people are still going to snap, and it'll be harder to clean up. _______________________________________________ Wikitech-l mailing list Wikitech-l@lists.wikimedia.org https://lists.wikimedia.org/mailman/listinfo/wikitech-l
