[PLUG] International FLOSS software groups and White House

[Ben Koenig]

On Thursday, March 13th, 2025 at 10:57 PM, Keith Lofstrom <keithl at keithl.com> wrote:

> Years ago, I managed an open source software project with
> contributors around the world. I was invited to join an
> email list about managing international FLOSS projects.
> I still watch that list, after passing the project baton
> to a contributor in New Zealand.
> 
> Currently, the list is discussing (quite intelligently and
> maturely) the effects of the pronouncements, policies, job
> terminations, funding cancellations, etc. issuing from the
> White House, and theit effects on international open source
> project management, funding, structure, and collaboration.
> MANY problems to solve, many geniuses inventing solutions,
> and preparing to test and implement those solutions.
> 
> I write mostly to express my admiration for the hard
> work and clever ideas of open source project leadership.
> There will be changes ahead, and some projects may not
> survive, but most will adapt and continue to grow.
> 
> I also write because some of you contribute to (or are
> leaders of) open source projects, and may want to learn
> from (or participate in) these discussions.
> 
> If so, contact me privately by email; I will tell you more.
> No big secrets per se; mostly I hope these leaders can stay
> focused on their task WITHOUT DISTRACTION, while helping
> local FLOSS leaders protect and evolve their own projects.
> 
> Keith L.
> 
> --
> Keith Lofstrom keithl at keithl.com

I don't think gatekeeping is the best course of action for you to take here. FOSS relies on transparency at a fundamental level. By attempting to control how much information people get regarding these alleged projects, you are destroying the one thing that all FOSS projects are based upon. 

The "leaders" you refer to are grown-ups and it's extremely unlikely that they need your assistance staying on task. That's WHY they are such great leaders.
-Ben