[ALAC] Parting words - So Long, and Thanks for All the Fish

[Carlton Samuels]

Dear Robert:
I read this notice and even though I think I understand your sentiments,
regret the development.  I so too wish that we can agree to disagree
agreeably and that the At-Large is mature enough to embrace divergent views
so what you have disclosed is mildly alarming. You should know we share a
common interest in preserving freedom of expression online, in combatting
censorship of whatever kind from wheresoever it comes and a credible end
user engagement in Internet governance.  And like you, ICANN is but one
constituency in which I'm engaged on these issues. I think it is important
enough for me to continue to devote time and effort to these matters,
especially to share a Caribbean perspective with the community. And it would
altogether be a good thing for At-Large if we are are severally engaged.

You should know that I've seen and benefited from your participation in ALAC
as well.  Outside of Jacqueline, you were one of the first on ALAC to
provide information on how to navigate the ICANN bureacracy and information
silos for the 'newbies' like me.  And it might not be generally know but you
were instrumental in working with Nick in the early days to enhance the
At-Large communications and process management tools. Your quiet suggestions
when we were working to form LACRALO at San Juan is more of the same. I
record your enthusiasm to build communities of interest by arranging
meetings with local constituents at every ICANN meeting I've attended as
well as some common social event that bring us together.

Happy trails and let's hope you keep in touch.

Best,
Carlton

On Wed, Jan 14, 2009 at 9:14 AM, Robert Guerra <lists at privaterra.info>wrote:

> A review of my engagement of late  has made me realize that due to work
> committments it will be challenge for me to focus the time, attention and
> energy required to actively participate in discussions on the ALAC. As
> such,
> I would like to put forward my notice of resignation as the North American
> RALO rep on the ALAC.
>
> While a short notice might be the most preferred option, I thought it
> appropiate to share my reasons with all of you so you can understand the
> context as well as the reasons behind my departure.
>
> The fact that issues related to freedom of expression, censorship and
> bottom-up user engagement are being ignored at both regional and global
> levels at both ALAC and ICANN is  greatly disappointing. This disspointment
> - and great fustration at times -   has made led  me to shift my activity
> from an active role to a more passive one. While active at the physical
> meetings, my engagement of late in the conference calls has been minimal
> and
> quite passive.
>
> My silience on the lists has led some to believe that I'm not engaged at
> all. Well, I would beg to differ as  my full-time position does focus on
> issues of user engagement, internet freedom and internet governance.
> Engagement is many different thing to different people. But, one thing is
> clear, my  change in level of engagement, divergent views and different
> style  has lead to an ongoing private agenda by some to attempt to force me
> out . Since the Cairo meeting, efforts have entensified. The choice of
> words
> in private email exchanges,  have been surprising.
>
> So, I prefer to recognize that there is a significant difference of opinion
> and pass on the opportunity to others .There are far too many other issues
> of importance that the group should - and must - focus on.
>
> I wish you all luck, success - and that we can stay in touch.
>
>
> Yours sincerely,
>
> Robert Guerra
> Managing Director, Privaterra
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