[Foundation-l] [Wikimania-l] Wikimania 2008 will happen in Alexandria, Egypt

[Jimmy Wales]

Mark Ryan wrote:
> But then along come Florence and Jimbo and tell us that it *is* a
> political event, that it was chosen because it can be used to campaign
> for human rights in Egypt; that it can bring positive change to the
> people of Egypt. 

Just to clarify a few points...

1. I don't think it is a political event, except in the broad sense that 
Wikipedia itself is "political" in terms of being a statement that every 
thoughtful and kind individual has a fundamental human right to 
participate in the creation of knowledge.

2. I didn't say anything about why it was chosen, because I had nothing 
to do with the selection... not even on the committee, didn't have a 
vote, didn't make any public comments, etc.  I was just an observer like 
everyone else.

3. I doubt very much if this event alone will bring about any positive 
changes in Egypt or anywhere else.  But I am certain that Wikipedia 
itself is already making positive changes all over the world, and this 
event supports Wikipedia.

4. I am very supportive of those who have concerns about holding 
Wikimania in problematic places, wherever those might be.  I am torn 
between the idea that we should always avoid them, versus the idea that 
we should deliberately seek them out.  There are merits to both 
positions I think... within limits.

--Jimbo