This brings up an issue I'm confused about,
perhaps people could clarify.
Until the New York Times article and the various public criticisms that
followed, including by Wikipedia editors, I somehow got the impression
one could get blocked or banned for saying critical things *off
Wikipedia* about WIkipedia, or discussing generally details of different
editing disputes, or even sharing details of off Wikipedia harassment -
*even if you carefully did Not* post any names of editors or direct
links to anything that might identify them. (And I was of course
worried that the double standard would raise its head vs. me, when other
editors might get away with it.)
Are such general criticisms and discussions off wikipedia OK, just in
case people were to post such things on face book or WikiChix lists or
other forums? I think it's good to clarify.
(Plus, right now I have a really obnoxious situation of off wiki
harassment with a probable ex-editor and I want to say that I think he
is a former editor without naming names or providing further evidence,
so it is today's concern.)
Thanks!!
General criticisms and discussions regarding Wikipedia are acceptable;
I've been doing it for years without reprisal and only the mildest
criticism. The dividing line is hard to precisely define but is no
different for women than men (of course, I would say that). But calling
the other editor's employer, wife, mother, etc is over the line, as are
death threats. Attempts to out them in public forums may be, but
interpretations of that can vary as their identity may be public
knowledge if researched. It comes down to personal malice or harassment
as opposed to disagreements over policy or content.
Not a very good answer, I know but how we will react kind of depends on
what sort of activities you engage in and how it feels. I suppose I could
tell you to act like a lady...
If you are being harassed you might contact the functionaries at
functionaries-en(a)lists.wikimedia.org and we'll see if we can't help you.
Fred