Sometimes, no matter what the intentions are - sometimes the end results get out of hand.
In the past few weeks - I've heard folks talk about how it was good the status quo was challenged and... it all went sour.
I honestly think we need to go back to the core of community moderation and start talking like adults.
This feels like literally the last chance to set things right - and actually come to something akin to an understanding.
At this point the damage done to the community, and to Monica's professional standing, feel like they outweigh the short- and long-term good that was intended. Lots of folks pulled together sure, but good people have less spoons than bad ones sometimes. MSE is a less nice place right now.
I've heard lots of arguments that Monica shouldn't be reinstated or she shouldn't come back. I don't think process was followed in removing her. Putting her back in place seems like the right thing to do, as would someone she trusts talking to her.
We clearly are going to have another TLTL blow up over this either way. I'm not entirely sure they stopped. It might be worth planning for this.
People need to stop yelling and start talking. I'm no genius but we all have blind spots. If you have a specific personal issue with Monica - maybe let her know? If you have a problem with that and need an intermediary, I'd be happy to help.
And honestly, I think everyone is aware that talking to the press was a mistake. The Register hates companies more than people and would be salivating at a retraction. You have a legal team to work out all that liability stuff. We all make mistakes. This is one that might ruin someone's life.
I think Jeff might have actually called Monica straight and handled it, but it was a smaller world then.
Right now, folks are putting out small fires and larger ones. It might be worth removing a source of the heat.