Let me throw out an idea that might address the base problem, harassment, in a way that would perhaps obviate the need for censorship. I don't know if this is a great idea or not, but perhaps you folks can find and/or patch the flaws.
I propose that we create a fund to support editors who are being harassed solely or mainly because of legitimate on-Wikipedia work. We fund this through contributions from the community. No WMF money would be involved, but perhaps they would consent to hold and/or supervise the fund.
What do I mean by support? Well, that would be up to the community, but I imagine it would include:
* Legal or investigative support to someone pursuing criminal charges against a harasser. * Legal or investigative support to someone pursuing a civil suit against a harasser, especially when seeking a protective order. * Public relations assistance for the target of a high-profile harassment campaign. * Compensation for cash costs of dealing with harassment, like changing phone numbers or moving. * Legal support to someone frivolously sued for legitimate and beneficial on-Wikipedia activity.
Why would we do this?
* To signal to community members that they will be supported when attacked by kooks. * To provide a deterrent for people who might harass productive, good-faith Wikipedia editors. * If necessary, to make an example of a harasser as a warning to future potential attackers. * To stand behind editors who might otherwise hesitate when wading in to clean up a mess.
Would this work? Could it be done in a way that would be unlikely to go too far wrong? And would this help satisfy the people who are currently pushing for various forms of censorship as a solution to harassment?
Humbly submitted,
William
P.S. If this happens, I'm in for the first $100.