scottreed's blog

The secret work of internet service providers...

Submitted by scottreed on Fri, 11/02/2007 - 11:43am.

Do you subscribe to Comcast internet?

You might be interested in a case that is currently surfacing surrounding what might be illegal blocking of internet traffic to certain file sharing sites, like BitTorrent. While file sharing sites and programs are notorious for the illegal circulation of music, movies, and computer programs, there is nothing inherently illegal about network infrastructure that allows internet users to share (usually large) files. In fact, organizations such as Free Press see this as a direct attack on a movement called Net Neutrality which proposes the basic tenant that internet providers should treat internet traffic equally, not deny access to certain websites and services or "slow down" access like Comcast seems to be doing with BitTorrent.


ACLU on TV!

Submitted by scottreed on Mon, 10/29/2007 - 6:21pm.

Check out ACLU.tv for info about a television series produced by the ACLU about issues ranging from immigrants rights to the drug wars. I was handed a stack of Season 1 DVDs when I visited the ACLU-NC office, and while I was originally hesitant about quick 20 minute documentaries trying to cover very broad and complicated issues, my worries were put to rest after viewing- these videos are great! These aren't civil rights for "dummies" lessons, they are serious, heartwrenching, inspirational, and do more than just skim the surface.

 Would you be interested in ACLU Santa Cruz hosting a viewing party of some the episodes? Season 2 is on it's way later this year....

 

-Scott 


Better rich and guilty than poor and innocent...

Submitted by scottreed on Sat, 10/27/2007 - 4:41pm.

I'm excited about getting involved in the many projects our local chapter as well as ACLU Northern California have in the works. In the past month that I've been officially an intern, I've learned a great deal about the organization as well as some of the more pressing legal issues in California. I hope to use this blog to discuss the projects I'm directly involved in as well as speak out on issues that are of particular interest to me. I encourage readers (thanks for reading, by the way!) to use the comment feature to weigh in with their own opinions or correct any factual errors. On with it!