the problem with this is that, for example, an open display of support for gay marriage will make some catholics (for example) unwelcome and discriminated against. This isn't even theoretical,
The thing is that we are talking about a technical community. I don't see what an open display of support for or disapproval of gay marriage has to do with Go.
People subscribe to Go lists because they want to discuss technical aspects of a programming language. For other topics, there are other venues.
People subscribe to Go lists because they want to discuss technical aspects of a programming language. For other topics, there are other venues.
Yes, and for highlighting off-topic subjects, there is the simple moderator acronym "OT". A rigid rule book and enforcement policy has nothing to do with free speech. It's all about trying to balance the inequalities in the tech sector. Unfortunately, a rule book is not going to solve that problem. The cynic in me just thinks this a conference "feel-good" announcement planned as a result of Googlers feeling bad about the fact that they are a 83% male workforce.
If the real problem is going to be solved, it's got to be about encouraging and educating people from all genders and races to code. That starts much earlier than any engagement in online communities. If the output of schools and colleges of trained coders was balanced, all the horror stories of harassment and abuse would soon become history as the workforce also becomes balanced, in my opinion.
I strongly dislike the idea of self-appointed judiciaries. Mistakes happen. The nuances of behaviour of people with mental health issues is likely to get caught up in these rule books. That's why we have courts, to help deal with difficult cases. Vigilantes may well refer to the code of conduct for justification for statements of intent like this:
The thing is that we are talking about a technical community. I don't see what an open display of support for or disapproval of gay marriage has to do with Go.
People subscribe to Go lists because they want to discuss technical aspects of a programming language. For other topics, there are other venues.