I posted to this thread in response to a complaint that people were creating a bullying atmosphere that might make it uncomfortable for somebody to post the lyrics to a song. I also received a complaint that people were harassing somebody for posting songs that were sympathetic with the Orange cause in Northern Ireland. I haven't checked into that situation, but I will. A couple of years ago, a regular Mudcatter was badgered and harassed out of regular participation in the Forum, simply because some people thought he was too stuffy in the way he posted messages.

This particular controversy began several weeks ago in the Doesn't Rent to Gypsies thread. Somebody posted a request for the lyrics to a song that may be offensive to the Travelling People. A person who apparently had not even heard the song responded with a series of tirades that condemned the original requester for simply requesting a song. A strongly worded statement in favor of gypsies and against discrimination would have been appropriate. An attack on a person for requesting or posting a song is not.

OK, here is the policy. I wrote it, because Max usually asks me to write the policy statements. If you wish to appeal this policy, you may appeal it to Max.

The Mudcat Cafe is a music discussion forum. Other activities are permitted and encouraged, but the primary focus of the Forum is music. The discussion of music is to be given special protection. Harassment which discourages or attempts to prevent the requesting, posting, or discussion of a song will not be tolerated, no matter how controversial the song may be.

added later in the day:
Sometimes, the posting of a song may arouse controversy that can be intimidating to some. If you wish to post lyrics in the Forum without being identified, feel free to send the lyrics to Joe Offer or Max Spiegel or Pene Azul by e-mail or personal message, and the lyrics will be posted.

The song should be posted. Thank you.
-Joe Offer-