Shut Down Nanowrimo: Its AI stance is bad, its grooming of kids is worse


Shut Down Nanowrimo: Its AI stance is bad, its grooming of kids is worse
The Issue
Nanowrimo, the write a book in a month organization, recently said in an official statement that not only was it OK with people using generative AI in a contest designed to get people to actually write things themselves, but that not embracing generative AI is ableist and classist. AI programs steal work from artists and authors, devalue the entire creative sector, bankrupt business, destroy jobs, and ruin the environment. Using AI in a challenge designed to help you grow and develop as a writer defeats the purpose. Using disabled creators as pawns in an argument you're trying to make is disgusting. Suggesting authors who aren't rich need help from AI to be understood is like vomit in the back of the throat.
Last year, Nanowrimo went out of its way to hide evidence that its forums were being used by a sexual predator to groom children. When kids brought up their concerns to people they were told they could trust, they were bullied, silenced, and abused. Meanwhile, known racists and homophobes in the organization's volunteer base were given a pass despite complaints leveled against them for harassment and abuse. Not only is this writing organization no longer about writing, it isn't even safe anymore.
Nanowrimo has proven it's out of touch and isn't needed anymore. It's harmful and it's time to end it. Close it down and fire its executive director.
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The Issue
Nanowrimo, the write a book in a month organization, recently said in an official statement that not only was it OK with people using generative AI in a contest designed to get people to actually write things themselves, but that not embracing generative AI is ableist and classist. AI programs steal work from artists and authors, devalue the entire creative sector, bankrupt business, destroy jobs, and ruin the environment. Using AI in a challenge designed to help you grow and develop as a writer defeats the purpose. Using disabled creators as pawns in an argument you're trying to make is disgusting. Suggesting authors who aren't rich need help from AI to be understood is like vomit in the back of the throat.
Last year, Nanowrimo went out of its way to hide evidence that its forums were being used by a sexual predator to groom children. When kids brought up their concerns to people they were told they could trust, they were bullied, silenced, and abused. Meanwhile, known racists and homophobes in the organization's volunteer base were given a pass despite complaints leveled against them for harassment and abuse. Not only is this writing organization no longer about writing, it isn't even safe anymore.
Nanowrimo has proven it's out of touch and isn't needed anymore. It's harmful and it's time to end it. Close it down and fire its executive director.
52
The Decision Makers
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Petition created on September 3, 2024