Serious post, guys-- Internet Blackout

This post has nothing to do with Classical Studies. However, as the owner of this blog, I feel like the message needs to be sent out about this.

BASICALLY, New Zealand is creating a law that works by "Guilt by Accusation" for copyright laws. If someone accuses you of breaking a copyright law, even if you didn't actually do the crime, you are automatically sentenced. There is no trial by jury. That's it. You're done. See ya!

This is, of course, an absolute outrage. Murderers get to have a trial-by-jury, but possible copyright offenders don't? I understand the hatred for copyright offenders is pretty strong, but come on, people, be reasonable! EVERYONE deserves a trial-by-jury. EVERYONE. It's especially dangerous on the copyright issue because not a lot of people truly understand copyright laws. Under this law, I predict that there will be a lot of innocent people being found guilty for crimes they never committed.

Anyway, you must be saying by now, "That's terrible! Whatever can we do, o Great-Guru-of-All-Things-Greek?" Let me now direct your eyes to exhibit B (the explanation was exhibit A). This website explains the situation a lot better than I can. Also, there is an internet blackout going on from February 16-23 in protest of this law. If you have a facebook, myspace, twitter, etc., I HIGHLY encourage you to change your picture to the little black box depicted on the site. This way, we can get out our feelings to the New Zealand government that this is not the way laws should be created (btw, this law goes into effect on February 28th). Also, I encourage everyone to sign the petition at the bottom of this page. Artists and non-artists alike can sign!

Go forth, my minions, and do your civic duty!