I have deep reservations about the actions taken at yesterday's “retreat.” I informed
my co-delegate that I would be delayed by one hour and ultimately arrived at the meeting
at approximately 3:30pm. Jamal, Angela, Jemma, Anwar, Silver, Patrik, Yar, Paige, Toan,
and John were there in person. Our newly hired facilitator, Jamal, was dictating the above
letter to Paige. Jake was not present. I was told that before I arrived, Jamal had called
a vote on what accountability measure would be suitable to address “the Jake problem.”
During this vote, delegates John (LL), Patrik (CCL), Paige (SR), and Natalie (SB) voted in
favor of inflicting this punishment and Toan (FNB) blocked the measure. Toan’s block was
overruled and the issue was then passed by consensus-minus one. Paige did not consult with
or inform me that this vote was taking place. Jamal asked me to keep this information
secret from Jake. I found this request objectionable as this was allegedly meant to be an
open meeting.
The meeting notes on the wiki say barely anything about how and why this decision was
reached. Jake was tried, convicted, and harshly sentenced - in absence - without a chance
to hear any charges, defend himself or plead his case. Abandoning due process is not
restorative in any way - it’s shameful - it makes the meeting seem less about
accountability and more about silencing dissent.
When I consulted with my co-delegate after the meeting, I asked if they believed that they
had voted in line with the wishes of our collective - they acknowledged that they had not
done so and would understand if they were asked to step down from the position. I
understand that Paige was under a lot of pressure and clearly cares deeply about our
community. I have great esteem for Paige and appreciation for much of the work they’ve
done in our space, however, it looks like the meeting may have escalated more quickly than
anyone could have expected. When I asked if it was possible to appeal this judgment I was
directed to consult with Jamal.
I call upon all people of sudoroom who share my fondness for due process and distaste for
secret trials to object by responding to this thread and making your views clear. Last
night, judgment was passed against one of our members without that person even being
present, and fundamental structural changes were made to our organization without
consultation of the general membership.
-Eric
Sudoroom Co-delegate