-----BEGIN PGP SIGNED MESSAGE----- Hash: SHA1 At 03:56 PM 9/14/2005, you wrote:
PGLAF is a 501(c)3 (so I surmise) and 501(c)3 status restricts the organization from direct political activity. For example, advocating that PG volunteers should vote for a particular candidate skirts close (at the minimum) to such disallowed political activity.
I believe we are ok, since it does not currently constitute a large portion of our activities. http://www.irs.gov/charities/charitable/article/0,,id=120703,00.html
I don't know what Michael said, but I think PGLAF, and all those who *may* speak for it in an official status on any forum, should avoid taking any political position (including how some law should be changed, such as copyright law) since that violates the "spirit" of 501(c)3, if not the letter. Certainly Michael has the right, wearing the hat of a private citizen and using his own forum and resources, to give his views. But as soon as he puts on the PG hat, then that drags PGLAF into it (the argument he is not on the PGLAF Board or its payroll, etc., is not sufficient -- PGLAF and all of PG's activities should avoid even the perception of political lobbying -- that's what 501(c)3 is all about.)
I believe a more likely problem is the potential that political remarks of the type which Michael made will bother some volunteers who view Michael as a spokesman for PG. Also, just so we're clear, the remarks I am referring to have nothing to do with copyrights. I am referring to the various "news headlines" which blame the poor response to hurricane Katrina on racism. Whether you agree with his position is moot. The point is that such a hot-button political issue has no business in a newsletter for PG when it is so completely unrelated.
What is really needed is to setup a separate organization devoted to the defense and rebuilding of the public domain -- somewhat like the NRA, it would be an "in your face" organization. It would seek the particular IRS non-profit status allowing political lobbying, which is not 501(c)3.
I'm not sure we have the funds to do so. Still, it is a good idea, although it might be easier to simply support a previously established organization who share the same goals, if such a group in fact exists. Sincerely Aaron Cannon
Jon Noring
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