David FriedmanDec 18, 2022
I think all those “How to Mastodon” articles are going about it all wrong. They start by explaining federation and talking about how to choose a server. Yes that’s the first step but it’s also where we lose people. Just put that aside. Start by talking about how you use Mastodon, all the great apps, the culture, etc. Then end with the first step, that “all you have to do is pick a server to get started” and explain how. You have to hook a fish before you can reel it in.
Show threadClaraDec 18, 2022

@ironicsans Question: does it matter which server I join?

I seem to be able to see all the Mastodon users that I want— even ones on different servers. It’s basically an open relationship, right?

Show threadBradley RynerDec 18, 2022
@claraeroberts @ironicsans As far as I can see, the biggest day-to-day impact of the instance you choose is probably how it is moderated. For example, do its moderators distinguish between a person with lived experience of racism talking about it vs. someone spreading racism disavowed as humor or devils advocacy or whatever. I’m glad that most instances seem to protect the former and ban the latter. But to keep it that way, we should be thoughtful about where we stay.
Show threadClara
@bradleyryner @ironicsans oh, gosh. I will think about being thoughtful. Mine seems great so far. I will cross the server bridge when I see trouble.
Dec 18, 2022 at 4:43pmWeb
Show threadBradley RynerDec 18, 2022
@claraeroberts @ironicsans The specific example that I had in mind was @KimCrayton1 ’s treatment on another instance (which I think I can’t link to but is in her feed). Also, I’ve been glimpsing discussions on LGBTQA+ instances about what they need from moderation.
I feel like we have a chance here to consciously construct Mastodon as a real inclusive space by listening to what moderation practices people with different experiences need.
Show threadKim Crayton ~ Her/SheDec 18, 2022
@bradleyryner @claraeroberts @ironicsans I rarely do this but I'm going to extend David a bit of grace here because his objection is what's fundamentally flawed with tech & how we continue to replicate harm wherever we end up...his perspective is one rooted in the status quo; where, as a white dude, particularly cis & hetero, welcoming & psychological safety aren't #1 considerations because every space is made for & prioritizes his comfort. This is not my lived experience so safety matters.
Show threadc b weisgramDec 18, 2022
@KimCrayton1 @bradleyryner @claraeroberts @ironicsans I have a habit of making everything about training because of my profession, but I wonder what kind of info and training there is out there for those techy dudes who do want to do a better job on sensitive issues of moderation. Like, is there a set of Generally Accepted Moderation Practices? What do/would they look like to a Mastodon mod?
Show threadKim Crayton ~ Her/SheDec 18, 2022
@weisgram @bradleyryner @claraeroberts @ironicsans ask and you shall receive https://www.kimcrayton.com/
Kim Crayton ~ Antiracist Economist

Forging a path to welcoming & psychological safety, in systems, institutions & policies, at scale.

Kim Crayton
Show threadThe Velvet HammerDec 18, 2022
@KimCrayton1 @weisgram @bradleyryner @claraeroberts @ironicsans Excellent! Thanks Kim!
Show threadc b weisgramDec 18, 2022
@KimCrayton1 @bradleyryner @claraeroberts @ironicsans Cool! I’m definitely going to dig in. After a super quick look though, I love the use of real world examples instead of hypotheticals. I have done so many training programs that use either lifeless, or incredible hypotheticals that leave me wondering more about what brought the issue to light. Why not treat people like adults and tell a real story? Love it!