Re: GNOME and the free software movement

[Jeff Waugh <jdub perkypants org>]

<quote who="Richard Stallman">

> In general, a free program that runs in a completely free system is a
> contribution to freedom; but GNOME is special: it was launched
> specifically to defend our freedom. We stated GNOME to blunt the danger of
> the (then) non-free QT library. I think most GNOME users and developers
> today are not aware of this.

I disagree, at least with regards to our developers. Much like our focus on
usability and the release process, issues related to Software Freedom figure
prominently in GNOME's trial-by-fire introduction to development (something
we need to improve). We face a tougher time with our users because we don't
usually have a direct relationship with them - we must work with and through
our distributors to make sure users understand and hopefully value Software
Freedom.

> I would like to ask the candidates for the board to state their views on
> how GNOME can work with the broader free software movement for the advance
> of computer users' freedom.

I can give an easy answer for me: I'm making sure the benefits of Software
Freedom reach users who will probably never use a "conventional desktop",
via my assistance with the GNOME Mobile and Embedded Initiative. Rock on,
Freedom Lovers!

- Jeff

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