Proposal regarding NCF Language Policy

Following discussions concerning the NCF Language Policy at the meeting
of the Francophone Committee, and discussions by a small group lead and
based on the work of Yvonne Dionne, it was agreed to submit a revised
proposal to the NCF Board of Directors for consideration at its meeting
of 17 December 1996:


Whereas the National Capital FreeNet (NCF) is a free computer-based
service designed to meet the information needs of people and allow
everyone to have the benefit of electronic communication in the National
Capital Region;

Whereas the National Capital Region population counts a large number of
persons using one or both official languages of Canada;

Whereas the NCF intends to serve as an instrument in the development of
mutual respect and cooperation within the networked community of the
Natinal Capital Region;

The Board of Directors of the NCF adopts the following revised Mission
Statement:

	The National Capital FreeNet is a free, computer-based information
	sharing network[, available in both official languages of Canada].  It
	links the people and organizations of [the National Capital Region,]
	provides useful information, and enables an open exchange of ideas with
	the world.  Community involvement makes FreeNet an important and
	accessible meeting place, and prepares people for full participation in
	a rapidly changing communications environment.

The statement of values is modified as follows:

STATEMENT OF VALUES
------------------
Free and equal:
* No charges for use.
* The same services available to all people of the region.
[* Access and information provided in both offical languages of Canada.]
* Unfettered communication.
* Respect for the rights of others.

Participative:
* Membership available to everyone of the region.
* Broad participation in running the FreeNet with most of the work done
  by volunteers.
* If you want something, you should be willing to help make it happen.
* Those who benefit should provide most of the funds.
* People helping each other.

Physical accessibility:
* Modest equipment requirements for users.
* Public access stations.
* Available and responsive.

Easy to use
Relevance / Significance in the Community
* A wide range of information and means of interacting - something
  useful for everyone
* Serving a wide variety of people in the region.
* Vibrant community interaction.

Please note that modifications are identified by text between [square
brackets].

--
Jean-Yves Fortin (ai772@freenet.carleton.ca)
Président                         voir : http://www.ncf.carleton.ca/~ai772/
Comité francophone
Libertel de la Capitale nationale