The Fight For The Net
Back in April, we published a piece on Trump and the Ajit Pai-led FCC’s efforts to end net neutrality regulations. Not much has changed in the time since then—our freedom of choice inherent to the internet is still under siege by internet service providers (ISPs), who want to double charge consumers and content creators.
As Brooklynites, we’re used to being the underdogs—we thrive on it. Brooklyn Magazine is a local publication that doesn’t have the resources of CNN or The New York Times, but thanks to a dedicated vision and the openness and freedom of the internet, we’re able to compete on a level playing field. So what happens when AT&T, Verizon, and Comcast no longer have to abide to that openness?
Net neutrality ensures that ISPs cannot create a ‘fast lane’ for certain websites, and all internet traffic must be treated equally. Without net neutrality, larger news organizations could pay to prioritize their site speed to consumers, putting smaller publications at a huge disadvantage. Digital is an extremely important component for any print magazine, particularly one like Brooklyn Magazine, and if put into the financial ring with conglomerate publications, the underdog will surely lose. ISPs would also have the ability to block access to content they find objectionable, like, say, a competitor’s website. Net neutrality opponents argue that repealing net neutrality fosters innovation and competition, but how true can that be when it comes at the expense of everyone except the ISP itself?
What can you do? Today is the internet wide day of action, and we’re joining with companies like Netflix, Reddit, Amazon, Spotify, and many others to stand up against the FCC’s anti-consumer practices and to fight for an open internet that serves everyone equally, regardless of their size or bank account. Call your senator. Post on social media. Whatever you do—do something.