An organization that is making a difference

Posted Aug 16, 2002 22:03 UTC (Fri) by crouchet (guest, #1084) [Link]

>>It's the US Internet Industry Association. They have had more impact on legislative[sp] issues than any other organization, to include EFF, FSF and all others.<<

I am not sure "impact" is measurable as such so I'll leave such comparisons aside as rhetorical.

While the concerns of this organization do seem generally to parallel those interested in OSS and of the personal concerns of internet users, that cannot be taken as a rule. Keep in mind that this is a trade association who's purpose is to protect and advance the interest of Internet Service Providers. That leaves plenty of room for issues that may be important to the majority of LWN readers but would not be of significant concern to the USIIA. Indeed, it is not inconceivable that they may occasionally form up on the opposite side of some issues.

While I imagine the USIIA are good allies on most issues, I think that the basic goals of the EFF and FSF are likely more in line with the particular concerns of the majority of readers here.

Which brings me to my suggestion. I agree that political activism and technical advancement are both helpful but I would also add: donate. More than a few of the readers here make very nice salaries and live well above the poverty line. A little of that money can make a big difference in the treasury of the EFF or other organizations fighting for your rights. In a way, even helping LWN survive helps preserve our freedoms because it gives us access to the information we need to recognize the threats.

JC