Language use on DCP

[Jami]

For the record, the originator of the this thread is not on very much lately for reasons much more important than DCP.

"and that's all i'm gonna say about that..."

[JohnD]

I have been a bit occupied with other issues - but have been keeping an eye on this topic and others. While some have asked for precise, specific definitions - I still believe that my original post contained sufficient detail for our members to know what is acceptable in the community.

Here are some excerpts from that post, with emphasis added:

The guideline is pretty clear:

"You may not use profanity. We encourage you to use our community as a forum to debate topics, but please use proper vocabulary to express yourself. We have word filters in place for the most vulgar terms. Circumventing those word filters is considered a violation of these guidelines and the offending terms will be removed."

Keep in mind that we have members as young as 13 years old visiting the DCP Community - so keeping the language appropriate for that age-group is important. We understand that there will be the occasional emotional reaction to an issue and people will slip with a word ... and that's what the filters are for, to catch those things. However, when the reliance on the filters (or manual substitution of symbols or other characters) in a post, where the message being communicated is clearly 'offending', becomes a regular practice - we will take action. Minor infractions would warrant the member being contacted and reminded of the policy ..... major or repeated infractions would result in a suspension being given - on an increasing scale from 3 days to a complete ban, after multiple offenses. In all cases, the authority for issuing a suspension will be the forum's Community Administrator.

Is there ambiguity in this policy? Yes, there is - which is required to provide both the community and moderation staff with some flexibility to deal with exceptions. The alternatives are draconian enforcement or complete chaos .... neither of-which are desireable for this community.

Are there ways we could improve the filtering system? Yes, I believe there are. Over the next few weeks, we will review the filter mechanism (within the limits of what the software developer has provided) and attempt to find a way to make the application of the filters more effective in preventing the communication of the filtered word. Please consider the fact that the arrangement of specific letters or symbols on the screen are not the only way of communicating a word or phrase. Is there ### question as-to what ### meaning of this sentance is?

Is there an opportunity for inconsistency? Yes. HOWEVER, we will always try to apply the intent of the guidelines consistently and consider the circumstances. Not everyone will agree along the way ... especially the 'offender' or those with an axe to grind over another issue ... but we will do our best to be fair and consistent in our application of the guidelines.

Our entire intent for this guideline is to make the DCP community as INCLUSIVE as possible - for those that share our interest in and love for the activity. If one is only interested in testing the outer limits of their perceived rights to 'free speech' - there are plenty of other forums available on the internet and elsewhere for that. That is not our focus here. We want to provide an environment where people with a WIDE range of age, experience, ideas, background, and values can come together to discuss a common interest.

Please take a moment to carefully READ what I wrote 2 weeks ago. If, after having read and considered what I've outlined as our policy moving forward, you require further clarification, I'll invite you to send an email to support@drumcorpsplanet.com.

Thank you for your consideration and support,

-john

[MikeM]

At this point John, the built in ambiguity isn't getting it done.

Either specifically spell out what is and is not a violation, or scrap the policy.

[JohnZ]

dunno - it doesn't say you "should not" - it clearly says you "may not", which, from where i sit, doesn't give anyone a conscious option.

But I also have to disagree with John - there isn't 'ambiguity' written in to his policy as much as it allows for reasonable 'leniency' in the event someone slips, as spelled out in paragraph 2, first statement.

but then again, what the #### do I know......

:blah: Post like you are making a first impression, because you probably are. :blah:

[MikeM]

I could be wrong, but I believe that the board can be configured in such a way that if you use a banned word, it won't allow the post at all.

Might be time.

[Jimisback]

"MAY NOT" Reason for uncertainty. Look up the word MAY. I guess they should have used "CAN NOT".

[SCVsopAaron]

I agree. this is vague and i think a LOT of us feel like we're walking on eggshells.

And also, if we're saying we're a "PG-13" rated forum, then we should be able to say things you can say in a pg-13 movie, because as of now, we're g.

Edited February 19, 2007 by SCVsopAaron

[Jami]

Then for those of you for who this is so vague, take John's advice and email him for further clarification.

[GMichael1230]

I agree. this is vague and i think a LOT of us feel like we're walking on eggshells.

And also, if we're saying we're a "PG-13" rated forum, then we should be able to say things you can say in a pg-13 movie, because as of now, we're g.

You should also use common sense and show respect. I happen to be quite offended how you throw the word terrorist around, calling Hrothgar it and implying it as acceptable, just becuase you dont agree with him.

Terrorists killed my Uncle on 9/11 and it was in very poor taste that you chose to use that type of "insult" to make you and your position on the issues look more intriguing or get a lugh at the expense of someone opposite your opinion.

and I dont care what "text' you meant it, you used it with no regard to to others and I feel it was rude and belittling , trying to intimidate the kid.

You fly around these boards rather cocky, caution to the wind and rather aggressive regarding your stance, not everyone feels that way.

~G~

[ScribeToo]

"MAY NOT" Reason for uncertainty. Look up the word MAY. I guess they should have used "CAN NOT".

Didn't you ever play "mother, may I?"

it's not a question of whether or not you CAN -- certainly you're capable and CAN curse... but to participate her, you need permission.. asking permission usually means asking, "may I?"

The answer to that question here at DCP is "No, you may not."

Why is this so difficult to understand?

Stef