Oooh, I know, I know!

But what is OP-FOP?

First, let me say that I admire and respect the willingness of moderators to devote their time for the good of the community.

Second, we all know that moderators are not perfect, and that Flyer Talkers as a whole can be even less so.

Third, while many moderators have developed thick skins, several still take negative comments about their performance very personally. And perhaps no "insult" cuts to the very core of their self-perception than the accusation of being "biased" or favoring a particular point of view. Many judges don't like recusal motions, either.

In fact, I believe that most moderators are not intentionally exhibiting a tilt in the "Politically Correct" direction. Some correctly point out that their own private views lean in the opposite direction (somewhat akin to those "personally opposed" to abortion) or that their own suspensions are evenly balanced (one lib, one con).

[I am not talking about "In the News" or any substantive forum where a moderator might freely enter a debate, then "time out" an opponent.]

Fourth, there does seem to be an overall "Politically Correct" ascendency on Flyer Talk. Elsewhere I have speculated as to possible reasons, including education, free time, and activist inclination. Hence, it is important to consider not only whether each individual decision is “fair and balanced,” but also whether the collective decision-making process of our moderator corps is having a disparate impact on the "Non-Politically Correct."

As someone who tends to walk on that side of the street at least some of the time, I assert that OMNI does indeed exhibit unwelcoming aspects to those who are not of a highly progressive bent. And if someone as opposed to American unilateralism as ozstamps feels the same way . . .

Okay, maybe I’m not helping my argument, given any animosities that some moderators may hold. But the “solution” or retort, “Why don’t you do it, then?” is not really a valid one either, because most of us don’t have the time to devote to this effort. Does that mean our perceptions are any less valid? Would a true conservative find being a moderator a positive experience given the (at least) subconscious tilt of the other moderators and the obviously contrary viewpoints of the most vocal Flyer Talkers (who do indeed seem to get cut more slack).

But if cactuspete is willing, go for it! [At the time, I thought the “tool” quote referred to a stooge, dupe, or ally, as in a capitalist (or communist) tool. Obviously, I’m not very “hip.” Or the Politically Correct read more into something than intended. Who knows?]

Criticizing the refs is an American pastime, and you’re doing your best. And we don’t have all the information you do. However, I would submit that traditionally-focused individuals travel and spend money, too, even if they have less discretionary income (because family comes first) than the Politically Correct elite.

Creating a blatantly or even subtly unwelcoming atmosphere to this silent minority (or majority) on OMNI is not in the ultimate best interests of Flyer Talk or its owner.