HollieFound my way into a great #FediForum discussion on implementing the ability to create private groups, and it startled me how emphatically a few folks were puzzled why this would be desired. One person repeatedly characterized private groups as "hiding from the public square". It feels like issues of harassment (sexism, racism, homophobia, transphobia, etc.) are talked about with such urgency (at least in my circles?) - I can't be the only hearing that? The public square isn't safe for everyone.
Jessica Smith@hollie Very weird! In addition to what you say, there are other reasons why people can't or don't want to share everything publicly – jobs that disallow it (or even try telling you not to use social media at all), and also just... discussing sensitive topics? Not everyone is some kind of thinktanker trying to boost their professional reputation through social commentary...