Yesterday, I announced the formation of a new group, Discussing Race at Daily Kos.
I want to make a few points about some of the discussion that ensued in the thread of that diary.
First, there were some aggressive challenges to certain language used in some of the comments. While the substance of the challenges will be permitted in the group, the MANNER in which the substance of the challenges was presented will not be. If you have questions or concerns about certain rhetoric, you will have to put those to the other person in the most civil and courteous manner possible. No aggressive challenges will be permitted.
Second, when presented with these aggressive challenges, the persons challenged responded in a belligerent and aggressive manner. This too will not be permitted. You can choose not to respond, or, preferably, respond in a civil and courteous manner EVEN IF you were not treated civilly or respectfully. You will leave the moderation to me and/or to other moderators I will choose.
Third, I understand that the rules I am imposing in this group are much much stricter than what is permitted in daily kos at large. I understand that this will require more effort in formulating comments and responses to comments. I understand that this will necessarily lead to a blander and less animated discussion. I have made these choices consciously. I think discussion of these issues merits this approach.
Fourth, I understand that thoughtful persons with much to contribute to the discussion may choose to not participate in the group as a result of these rules. Again, I have made a conscious choice, knowing this may be the result.
Finally, as I stated in the original diary, the intent is to create a safe, civil, non-name calling space to discuss issues of race, in the world generally, and specifically at daily kos. Some may believe that I am the wrong person to do this. Nonetheless, I have formed this group. If others prefer to form their own group for discussion of these issues, I welcome the creation of other groups. But I will insist on THIS group operating as I state here until persuaded that another approach will be preferable.
I hope others join me and those of you who have chosen to join the group. But if they do not, that is fine too. There are many approaches that may be the most productive, and I have outlined my view on the best way to do this at this time. I will try my way for the time being.
We will launch in earnest on Monday. I hope folks will join me.