A little political activism opposing SOPA and PIPA
January 18 2012, 8:33 AM
I wasn't sure how I would respond to the Wikipedia blackout today (#wikipediablackout). I decided to have a look at their website, and I like what they've done. After skimming the SOPA initiative page and the EFF's page "How PIPA and SOPA Violate White House Principles Supporting Free Speech and Innovation," I decided to do my part.
I see that Rep. Lamborn isn't on Twitter. Fine, we both know how to use the phone. His staff picked up, and I was asked for an email address. I'll be curious to see what kind of email I start receiving. (I gave him a unique address.) I called Sen. Udall and got his voicemail. There was an offer to speak to a person. I declined. He asked for my email. I gave him the same one. Then I called Sen. Bennett. Same offer to speak to a person or leave a message, but he asked for my zip code and didn't ask for my email. I gave it to him anyway.So what does this mean for democracy? Well, it's certainly a good example of netizens organizing. I know, there are plenty of other examples, but this one hit home for me. I'm a Wikipedian and a card-carrying, dues-paying member of the EFF. It will always takes considerable time and effort to do democracy right. I'm glad technology helps so much. We have a long way to go, though. One last thought: The Sunlight Foundation is an excellent resource. I'm surprised I don't see SOPA or PIPA on their home page, but the search results (click on the hyperlinks) look helpful.118 views and 1 response
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Jan 25 2012, 6:43 AMcrlopez liked this post.