It is requested that wiki changes to the original Code of Conduct page be made only by the original author, or other individuals specifically designated by the Board of Directors, during the discussion phase of the life of the document. When suggesting proposed changes, additions or corrections here, please make reference to the specific section(s) using something akin to this example “Member Code, Be Respectful section: … ” followed by your comment.

During the course of the monthly Board of Directors meeting on Wednesday, October 12, 2011 I was volunteered for, and readily accepted, the responsibility to draft a sample code of conduct for the organization. I admit my initial reaction was to resist writing up a set of rules listing all the things a member should and should not do. Setting aside how long such a list could be (even if it were limited only to prohibitions or proscriptions), I share Alexander Hamilton's concern that when one begins to enumerate rights (or I would argue prohibitions, as well) it can easily lead to the misunderstanding that only those rights listed are granted (or that anything not specifically prohibited is considered to be condoned). An illuminating aside from my parenting experience, that I think is related: Who knew I would need to implement the rule “Do not tape things to light bulbs”?

I also am of the opinion that ultimately the three core statements cover it all (be excellent, the needs of the many, and do-ocracy), and anything more elaborate is little more than a series of examples of embodiment or violation of those principles. Still, I accepted the task, knowing at the very least I would be able to help open this conversation with my point of view clearly represented.

After a bit of searching (praise google), some discussion (with members and non-members alike), and digging into my past experience with various other non-profit, member-based organizations, I came up with what I hope is an excellent framework for further discussion. I suspect all the recipients here are at least vaguely familiar with the open-source Ubuntu project. The core members of that project developed Codes of Conduct for their participants and leaders, and released it under a Creative Common license. The initial draft of a TC Maker Code of Conduct replies heavily on those documents, with the refinements made necessary by the difference in goal and intent between the two organizations.

I am of the opinion that a document based on the text posted here will be adopted for the organization in the near future. It is my sincere hope that the resulting text truly reflect the consensus of all members before it is adopted. I wholeheartedly embrace any suggestions, additions, deletions, tweaks, clarifications, and punctuation improvements that further that goal.