I agree that if you don't like how things are being run:
1. leave, 2. vote out the BoD and vote in new, or 3. form your own organization.
What I disagree with is the statement, "AMSAT is not 'censoring' anyone."
Now, I'm no lawyer by any stretch, but I can read. Censoring is limiting speech based on what one finds objectionable. What is objectionable is completely subjective.
"Abridging the freedom of speech" is how it is worded in the First Amendment. Abridging also means limiting. So, whether you call it censorship or abridging, what the AMSAT BoD has done is censorship.
In the end, it's your $44.
73, Joel, W4JBB
Clint Bradford wrote:
... Censorship in any form without external control is unacceptable ...
AMSAT is not "censoring" anyone. In America, only the government is not allowed to "censor" folks. You know, that First Amendment thingie:
"Congress shall make no law respecting ... abridging the freedom of speech ... "
This messagegroup - and millions of others - is a private party. NOT government-run nor sponsored. We're mere visitors entering and using it, and we have to abide by its rules - else we go elsewhere. Like guests in your home, there's an expected set of rules for behavior, and AMSAT just laid them out in black and white.
Similar to a Web site's "user service agreement" - a concept and device I've been using for my sites' visitors for over twenty years. A properly-drafted user service agreement spells out what I promise to you as the Web site owner, and what I expect from you as a visitor. Kinda like shaking hands before you peruse my sites.
Clint Bradford, K6LCS http://www.k6lcs.com _______________________________________________ Sent via AMSAT-BB@amsat.org. Opinions expressed are those of the author. Not an AMSAT-NA member? Join now to support the amateur satellite program! Subscription settings: http://amsat.org/mailman/listinfo/amsat-bb