MPJC ***Zero-Tolerance-for-Flaming Policy***

It has become a concern among MPJC members that the atmosphere of this list has occasionally become very angry and belligerent. We are attempting to create a more peaceful atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and doesn't have to worry about whether or not they will be put down or yelled at by anyone. Therefore we are proposing that the MPJC email list adopt a "no-flaming" policy.

Flaming refers to sending emails that include name-calling, swearing, insults, impolite statements, threats and put-downs, and attacks on groups or individuals.

Vigorous discussion will always be a part of mailing list exchanges. Stating strong critical opinions about an issue is fine; stating your strong critical opinions about a person or group of people -- their character, their motivations, their integrity -- is *not* fine.

Messages sent to the entire list that are deemed by MPJC members to be inflammatory, demeaning, or defamatory against individuals or groups of people will not be tolerated. We have no intention to censure or limit active discussion or disagreement but public fighting and insulting personal attacks are not welcome here.

Therefore our new rule is an old adage...if you don't have something nice (or helpful) to say, don't say anything at all. Below are the steps we propose to follow, in order to enforce the "no-flame" rule -

  1. Any member sending a "flame email" will be given a warning.

  2. If the offending member continues the behavior, s/he will be banned from the list for a period of one week and asked to send an apology to the list members before being re-subscribed to the list.

  3. If the behavior continues after that, the offending member's subscription to the email list will be deleted permanently.

PLEASE BE NICE TO EACH OTHER, PEOPLE!!! Your subscription to this list depends on it.