This weekend we’ve had an example of social media rising up to roast a company over the coals. I think this isn’t always the best example of the power of social media, the ad might not have been great, but whether it is out there or not doesn’t really affect the world at large.
Now a non-neutral net with ISPs throttling P2P or just blocking traffic is something that affects all of us. This weekend’s heated discussion couldn’t have been possible without the free and open net that allow us to not only discuss the topic in real time, but to also have allowed Twitter itself to be born.
Here in Canada we don’t have a particularly pro-Internet, or rather pro-free internet, administration. SaveOurNet has been working hard, and Steve has been emailing be frequently reminding me of the importance of the issue at hand. Today Parliament opens its new session, and I think it would be a good idea to contact our various members of Parliament and let them know how we feel.
The Conservative federal government is NOT inclined to support an open Internet. To keep a level playing field on the Internet we’ll need a robust citizens movement to put pressure on politicians and policy makers and shape policy that protects equal access. The social web community can provide the foundation for this burgeoning movement – perhaps even serve as a catalyst. Consider this a call to action.
[From Does Social Media Have an Immune System? | SaveOurNet.ca]
The Conservatives might have a pretty large minority government, and the Liberals aren’t in much of a place to influence much, but our voices together can raise the issue to the fore.
I’ll be writing an email today to my MP, how about you?
Tris Hussey is a writer, teacher, blogger, and speaker on all facets of Internet life, WordPress, and social media. He is the author of Create Your Own Blog: 6 Easy Blogging Projects to Start Blogging Like a Pro and Using WordPress.
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