Self-policing communities

[holly_evolving]

I'm rather ashamed of myself. Something happened a few years ago that, while not traumatizing, was something I didn't like. And I didn't tell the appropriate people about it.

And now it comes out that I'm not the only one, and there are probably quite a few others who never told the appropriate people. The person behind the something might not even know that it was something people didn't like, because no one ever spoke up. That this person should have known is beside the point; sometimes there are mental quirks that prevent people from understanding.

If we don't take steps to protect ourselves in an appropriate and timely manner, how can we expect our community to protect us? How can we send a message about what is acceptable and what is not? We each owe it to them and to each other to do our part.

What's already happened may be past the point of addressing, but I won't let it happen again. You have my word.

Comments

[sororbabylon.livejournal.com]

This is just to say that I read this and that I hear you, and that it is not your fault. <3

[holly-evolving.livejournal.com]

Oh, I know it's not my fault that it happened in the first place. But now I find out that no one ever said anything to the people in charge, and that he hasn't stopped...and I'm friends with the people in charge, and I can just imagine how they feel finding out about this. It would have been better for the community if I had spoken up; but then, it would have been better if anyone had. I can't take all the blame, and I won't. But it would be irresponsible of me not to take my share and do my part in the future.

On the other hand, I know where you are coming from, and I completely appreciate what you say. If our situations had been reversed, I don't think I would do or feel any differently than you. *hug*