Widder Curry ‘Banned’ From Nextdoor

Just What Is Nextdoor?

By Judi Curry

Let me begin this biased report by saying that I have been reduced to a “read only” status on our neighborhood Nextdoor.  And yes, I admit that I violated their rules re: no political discussions on this site.

And yes, I admit that it has happened more than one time. However, many things that I write about are politically motivated – be it outright, or “under the covers.”  And yes, I admit to being a liberal; I cannot stand the person in the White House; I have no tolerance for people that were my friends – and relatives – supporting children in cages; separating families; no medical attention; no flu shots.

I am in favor of the “American Dream” – let those seeking a better life seek it here – we can all benefit from their desires.  So … with that in mind let me tell you what the “read only” restriction means:

Someone posted the other day that their doggie was missing.  I saw the dog just minutes after the post.  I could not tell the owner where there dog was because I can only “READ”. No comment.

I had an intruder break into the back yard a few weeks ago. I could not alert my neighbors of this intrusion because I can only “Read.” No comment.

My neighbor had his car stolen from his driveway last week. I could not alert my neighbors because I am in “Read Only” status.

I cannot post any of my restaurant reviews because I am in “Read Only” status.  That means that readers on Nextdoor cannot find out about the great new restaurants opening in the neighborhood. [Unless you read the OB Rag.] (Yes, there are other reviewers that you can read.)  It also means that the owner of the new restaurants cannot get the word out about the new establishments on Nextdoor, and that negates new diners.

It means when someone posts on “Nextdoor” what is happening with the Bermuda steps and I have an answer I cannot answer them. I can’t even send them a private message.

It means that when I have information about the new 4-way stop sign that is going to be put up on the corner of Sunset Cliffs and Pt. Loma Avenue I cannot alert the neighborhood.

Even my article on the horrific bike lanes that are appearing all over San Diego – “horrific” is my take on it – I cannot tell readers about the newest ones, and, if your break it down completely, it is also a politically motivated endeavor.

You have the picture by now.

According to their website,

“Nextdoor is the private social network for your neighborhood.  It is the best way to stay informed about going on in your neighborhood – whether it’s finding a last-minute babysitter, planning a social event, or sharing safety tips….A community built by you and your neighbors.” 

They go on to say that “Nextdoor is the world’s largest social network for the neighborhood.  It enables truly local conversations that empower neighbors to build stronger and safer communities.”

I thought it was also interesting to see that it is a “privately-held company based in San Francisco with the backing of prominent investors including, Benchmark Capital, Greylock Partners, Kleiner Perkins, Axel Springer and others.”

We, as neighbors, live together cohesively day after day after day. Some of us agree on some things; others agree on other things. At no time will we all agree on the same thing, even if it benefits the area.

Nextdoor gives you the opportunity to block – or mute – someone that you do not want to hear from, read about, or interact with.  No one is forcing anyone to read an article; no one is forcing anyone to respond – or not respond – to a article, blog, or…..

Politics is everywhere.  The once proposed grocery strike; the once Kaiser proposed strike; the bike lanes; the new transit prices and routes; the new freeway construction.  You don’t want to read about it? Don’t.

Nextdoor should be about allowing the neighbors to express opinions re: everything and anything that affects our living conditions.

To reduce us – me, in particular, to a “Read Only” mode – that may be “revisited in September if I apply for reinstatement” – takes away from the entire purpose of Nextdoor.

I feel like I am being sent to the Principal’s office because I was a bad girl.

But you know what? I am a bad girl! And I do not write to make friends.

I write because too many of us just sit back, complain, and do nothing.  So…if Nextdoor wants to restrict me that is their prerogative.

And for those of you that sent in supporting letters, I thank you.  At a time when journalists are losing their jobs; at a time when there is more and more “fake news” I will still continue to get my message out to the community.  You can read it; you can get ticked at me – some of the scars are quite deep – but it won’t stop me.

Oh yeah – have a nice day.

And as an addendum – If I promise not to write anything political ever again, my ability to use “NextDoor” has been reinstated.  Don’t look for anything from me in the near future. – What a shame – there was so much potential at one time.