Dear colleagues,
There is one reason, and one reason alone, that I have not gotten into the fray about appropriateness of images and some text in Wikipedia. The reason is the discussion ends up on the internet and any search for my name will turn up all the details of everyone's comments. This generates a guilt-by-association situation that can affect real life circumstances that I've already experienced. In discussion with some parents, content added by some, discredits the entire Wikipedia reason-to-exist, and has become 'not-recommended.'
As a mother and educator, who has encouraged universities, schools, PTAs, and school districts to embrace Wikipedia, and give students the opportunity to get a feel for ownership and responsible editing, and as a scholar committed to seeking solutions to gender gap issues, I hold the view that some materials are not appropriate. What is not appropriate in schools and libraries has to be something to consider as a measure of acceptability. As a social scientist, it is clear to me cultures vary.
There might be considered an Iron Curtain Wikipedia with content that those seeking 'certain topics' could elect to navigate.
I'd rather this comment not be attached to any that may follow it, otherwise, I am sidelined from getting into the communication and search for consensus.
Thank you, and onward gallant Wikipedians - wherever and whoever you are,
KS Rolph
