Geekularity

Kathy Sierra, a prominent blogger and author, who’s blog I read constantly, has quietly endured cyber-bullying in the comment sections of her blog and through other online forums. This unacceptable behavior has recently risen to threats of sexual torture and death. As a result, Sierra has canceled her speaking engagements and has become reluctant to venture out her front door. In what may become her last blog post, she explains what has been going on and then she apologizes to her readers and fans for withdrawing from the community for a while.

It’s an absolute shame, if not ironic, that such a brilliant person, who so thoroughly understands and is able to explain the intricacies of computer user behavior, has fallen victim to the antics of such a disturbed computer user. Kathy Sierra has taught me how to become a better software developer, and I have always looked forward to reading her insights. How anyone could find reason to hate her for what she does is beyond me or any other sane member of the human race. Unfortunately, that’s not who she is dealing with. Should Kathy choose to permanently withdraw from the blogosphere as a result of these events, I think we would all understand. However, she will be sorely, sorely missed.

I suspect that much anger and outrage will be expressed in the blogoshere over this topic. And as strong as my emotions are over this, I will not offer a call to action or an opinion of what should happen. Rather, I will suggest that Kathy has many friends in this community and that our demonstration of support for her is much more helpful than any witch hunt or mob action. Let law enforcement do there job, while you, as a friend of Kathy Sierra, send her your love and support.