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.