An open letter to Skinner (POSTED IN THE AFRICAN AMERICAN FORUM)

[Tab]

221. I fully agree

I moderated many years ago, before this jury stuff, and we generally had to discuss it based on what we observed, the history, and so forth.

We're now on the jury system. I posted something a few days ago (when Obama and friends - whom I love - decided not to do a recess appointment. I made the mistake of entitling it "pussies", language I don't normally use, but the body of the post was fine and I was just trying to take our administration to task because I think (and recent news articles support) Obama should have the right to nominate whoever, and felt they were just rolling over, and that's a strategic move I know the Republicans wouldn't DARE give up if in the same position.

Surprise, it was hidden with jury comments like "over the top" and things like that. That's what comes from not having a larger perspective. I doubt most even read the damned thread, because it occurred after multiple followup posts that elaborated on the thinking behind it.

Over 10,000+ posts, I've had few - maybe not even a half dozen - reported on and hidden - but I've always been frustrated to not have been able to contest it - or, perhaps, a better solution - offer an explanation causing it to be reviewed either by the juries or the moderators. Instead I get the impression it's tossed out there, barely taken into context by most members, and then struck, and non-appealable.

I also know that DU frowns upon any criticism of the system, and honestly, I take some issue with that too. I know it can be a rat's nest when people have varying but passionate opinions, and it has to get managed, particularly for some non-appealable decisions, but we do need to talk about certain systems sometimes. I've had issues with the jury process for some years, and I don't think it really helps DU. It does alleviate the drag on moderators, but I'm not sure it's in a good way.

- Tab