Lockdown Notice: This community is temporarily closed

[atomicpoet@piefed.social]

Because of the behaviour I’ve seen in recent discussions, I’m placing !fediversenews@piefed.social on lockdown until further notice.

The problem isn’t disagreement or debate—that’s always welcome. The problem is brigading: people from outside the community piling in, not to engage in good faith, but to stir conflict and derail conversation. When that happens, it ceases to be discussion and turns into harassment.

This community was created to provide a space where people can follow Fediverse news, share perspectives, and talk about developments in a civil manner. I won’t let that be undermined by targeted disruption. For the time being, no new posts will be allowed. Once things cool down, I’ll review the situation and reopen the community.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed in good faith—you’re the reason this community exists.

[atomicpoet@atomicpoet.org]

For context: I noticed a few Lemmy folks engaging in behaviour I considered toxic on !fediversenews@piefed.social.

My first thought was, “Should I just ban them?”

But then I thought, “No… maybe they don’t realize how they’re coming across. Give them the benefit of the doubt. Send a private message, explain why it’s offensive, and let them know that if it continues, moderation will follow.”

That’s exactly what I did. No bans. No public shaming. Just a warning—and in my mind, a very gentle one.

Well, a couple of them didn’t take kindly to that. Instead of reflecting, they posted my message across a few Lemmy communities. From there, people piled in to brigade my community, openly encouraging harassment.

So I said to myself, “You know what? I’m the one who contributes most here. Time to lock this place down.” And that’s what I did.

Now that the community is locked, some of them are following me elsewhere.

But honestly, it doesn’t matter. Because when I start and moderate a community, my goal is to make it enjoyable for everyone. And if that means toxic people don’t get a seat at the table—so be it.