[ Cross-posted from https://meta.wikimedia.org/wiki/Meta:Babel#Donations_-_show_the_editors_you_... ] I had the misfortune of visiting Wikipedia logged-out the other day, and was struck by the large size of the donation banner, and the odd wording of the appeal. (Something about awkward and humble.) Re-checking now, the "awkward" bit is gone, but the following sentences are still there: "If Wikipedia has given you $2.75 worth of knowledge, take a minute to donate. Show the editors who bring you neutral and verified information that their work matters."
As an occasional editor I want to know: how do the donations show me that the work matters? Is there some W?F "appreciation fund" that's going to start handing out disbursements to editors? Will the money hire more dev's to implement all the unfinished items from the Community Wishlists? Will funds be used to run better "community consultations" where the communities are actually listened to? Or is it just a big fat cynical marketing lie?
[Add: okay, I get it that donation appeals have to phrased in a way that actually causes people to donate. But this skates very close to implying that Wikipedia's editors are paid from donors' money.] Cheers, Pelagic