Feedback on User Name Censorship

[Porn Clerk]

I am not trying to single anyone out, especially since I was approached somewhat professionally, but the fact that I am being asked to change my user name, which is actually my job title, which is what is listed as my occupation on my tax return, is a joke. As I told the moderator who messaged me, I am all for word filters, and whatever is needed to ensure that as this board grows the online community is a success, and not filled with children, and mental midgets trying to start flame wars. But a line must be drawn. It isn't as though my name is offensive.

[berad]

why don't you just change your name?

[DRayRaven]

I am not trying to single anyone out, especially since I was approached somewhat professionally, but the fact that I am being asked to change my user name, which is actually my job title, which is what is listed as my occupation on my tax return, is a joke. As I told the moderator who messaged me, I am all for word filters, and whatever is needed to ensure that as this board grows the online community is a success, and not filled with children, and mental midgets trying to start flame wars. But a line must be drawn. It isn't as though my name is offensive.

Since this board is on the official site, there will most likely be younger users than some of the other boards that are out there. I'm also an admin on one of those sites, and I'd probably ask you to change your username over there, as well. The last thing we want is someone getting angry because they find their kid giggling over someone using "Porn Clerk" as a username - or even worse, having to field questions about what it means.

Surely it's not that big a deal, is it?

[Guest Guest]

Because this is my online name for everything, because it is never in use.

Use discretion in selecting an appropriate username. Lying about your identity, either by denying that you are an existing member under a different name or by impersonating a member of the Baltimore Ravens organization or another forum member is prohibited. Registration of user names of actual Ravens ownership, front office, coaches, players, staff or media is not allowed. If you are not Brian Billick, you may not register that as your user name. Please also refrain from registering inappropriate user names, including, but not limited to, racial slurs, profanity and explicit or implicit vulgarity, else your membership will be revoked.

I'm quite certain that my name can't be fit into "implicit vulgarity," so what am I supposed to do? I didn't try to register with anything other then my job description which is my online identity.

[theFRANCHISE]

For the record, I personally don't think that your name is offensive...

...however, I understand the logic behind the request for it to be changed, though.

Most of society (on the outside) still has negative connotations of anything involved with pornography. Therefore, the conservative route would be to embrace those connotations, rather than explain and understand the small-mindedness of such thoughts.

In terms of this message board's stance, the name itself probably is a turn-off to some parents (which is somewhat understandable, despite not being a parent myself), and it would probably inadvertantly raise red flags on parental controls for some users, when this is designed to be a family-friendly board.

So I guess you shouldn't take it personally that there was a request to change your name. It's probably just for content filter reasons and accessibility for all users.

[berad]

well

know you're a guest, but..

it did say "inappropriate" and your username could be defined as that?

why is it so difficult to change your username?

[DRayRaven]

Because this is my online name for everything, because it is never in use.

I'm quite certain that my name can't be fit into "implicit vulgarity," so what am I supposed to do? I didn't try to register with anything other then my job description which is my online identity.

Use some kind of clever variation of your name, maybe even a play on words...be creative.

I've seen some really cool usernames from time to time that I wish I had thought of myself.

I don't really think we need to have a group discussion about this.

No offense, but I'm closing the thread. You're free to contact me or one of the other mods by PM, though.

[Guest Guest]

Since this board is on the official site, there will most likely be younger users than some of the other boards that are out there. I'm also an admin on one of those sites, and I'd probably ask you to change your username over there, as well. The last thing we want is someone getting angry because they find their kid giggling over someone using "Porn Clerk" as a username - or even worse, having to field questions about what it means.

Surely it's not that big a deal, is it?

It wasn't a big deal until I was told that I had to change the name, or be removed from the community. (Not in those terms, but being told "Your user name isn't going to fly" is in reality, change it, or leave.) And I am not going to change a name that is NOT OFFENSIVE, as well as my job description, and finally the handle I use for my online identity.

If it is going to be an issue that grows, then I will leave, but perhaps the Ravens organization should consider those who they allow the power to be held by a little but stronger before handing over the reigns.

[DRayRaven]

It wasn't a big deal until I was told that I had to change the name, or be removed from the community. (Not in those terms, but being told "Your user name isn't going to fly" is in reality, change it, or leave.) And I am not going to change a name that is NOT OFFENSIVE, as well as my job description, and finally the handle I use for my online identity.

If it is going to be an issue that grows, then I will leave, but perhaps the Ravens organization should consider those who they allow the power to be held by a little but stronger before handing over the reigns.

I don't know who contacted you, but they were right.

"Porn Clerk" isn't an appropriate username here.

[Mista T]

I am not trying to single anyone out, especially since I was approached somewhat professionally, but the fact that I am being asked to change my user name, which is actually my job title, which is what is listed as my occupation on my tax return, is a joke. As I told the moderator who messaged me, I am all for word filters, and whatever is needed to ensure that as this board grows the online community is a success, and not filled with children, and mental midgets trying to start flame wars. But a line must be drawn. It isn't as though my name is offensive.

Did you perchance read "the rules":

http://boards.baltimoreravens.com/index.ph...mp;coppa_pass=1

Explicit picture in posts and/or signatures is strictly forbidden. Neither explicit nor implicit content will be tolerated and will be grounds for an immediate loss of your membership privileges. This includes hardcore/softcore pornography, animated pictures, written language, etc. content. Please recognize that these message boards are designed to be enjoyed by Ravens fans from all walks of life. Use discretion and plan on erring on the side of caution in instances where material you are considering posting might be considered a violation of the code of conduct. Political and/or religious messages should also not be included in your signature. Remember that respect for your fellow members is the first rule of the code of conduct and that the majority of our traffic occurs during work, in public environments, and could be made by individuals under 18 years old. This rule is strictly enforced.

[DRayRaven]

Did you perchance read "the rules":

http://boards.baltimoreravens.com/index.ph...mp;coppa_pass=1

Explicit picture in posts and/or signatures is strictly forbidden. Neither explicit nor implicit content will be tolerated and will be grounds for an immediate loss of your membership privileges. This includes hardcore/softcore pornography, animated pictures, written language, etc. content. Please recognize that these message boards are designed to be enjoyed by Ravens fans from all walks of life. Use discretion and plan on erring on the side of caution in instances where material you are considering posting might be considered a violation of the code of conduct. Political and/or religious messages should also not be included in your signature. Remember that respect for your fellow members is the first rule of the code of conduct and that the majority of our traffic occurs during work, in public environments, and could be made by individuals under 18 years old. This rule is strictly enforced.

Err...what about that topless pic of Mr. T with the Pringle guy giving him a wink?

[DeathOnWings]

any parent that draws red flags becuz of a name like "Porn Clerk" is wayyyy too protective over their children...