On Misunderstandings

Yesterday there was a flurry of activity on Twitter, and in retrospect, it seems that some have come away with interpretations of what I said that are other than what I intended.  Some of that misunderstanding is pretty unfortunate, so I'd like to set the record straight on a couple of items now.

First off, let me begin by saying that this blog, and my Twitter account, are mine alone, and are used by me to express my opinions.  They represent neither illumos nor Lucera, nor anyone or anything else.

Second, I have to apologize for it seems that I've come across as somehow advocating either against diversity (whether in the community or in the workplace) or in favor of toxicity.

Nothing could be further from the truth.  I believe strongly in diversity and an inclusive environment, both for illumos, and in the work place.  I talked about this at illumos day last year (see about 13:30 into the video, slides here), and I've also put my money where my mouth is.  Clearly, it hasn't been enough, and I think we all can and should do better.  I'm interested in finding ways to increase the diversity in illumos in particular, and the industry in general.  Feel free to post your suggestions in the comments following this blog.

Additionally, no, I don't believe that anyone should have to put up with "high performing toxic people".  The illumos community has appropriately censured people for toxic behavior in the past, and I was supportive of that action back then, and still am now.  Maintaining a comfortable work place and a comfortable community leads to increased personal satisfaction, and that leads to increased productivity.  Toxicity drives people away, and that flies in the face of the aforementioned desire for diversity (as well as the unstated ones for a growing and a healthy community.)

Finally, I didn't mean to offend anyone.  If I've done so in my recent tweets, please be assured that this was not intentional, and I hope you'll accept my heartfelt apology.

Thanks.

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