Had a very short acquaintances with Robert during the last year's NomCom. Wish you the very best in your future endeavors. Regarding the discussions on the list, I presume they are very dynamic and most of the time constructive too. These discussions should lead us to the refined territory of the Internet for All (despite many obstacles). My observation in this aspect that the discussion should not lead to any personal status, especially in terms of using choice of words, as you have indicated. I hope we will not miss you in other platforms of Internet governance! Best regards, Hakik At 03:34 PM 1/14/2009, Robert Guerra wrote:

A review of my engagement of late has made me realize that due to work commitments it will be challenge for me to focus the time, attention and energy required to actively participate in discussions on the ALAC. As such, I would like to put forward my notice of resignation as the North American RALO rep on the ALAC.

While a short notice might be the most preferred option, I thought it appropiate to share my reasons with all of you so you can understand the context as well as the reasons behind my departure.

The fact that issues related to freedom of expression, censorship and bottom-up user engagement are being ignored at both regional and global levels at both ALAC and ICANN is greatly disappointing. This disspointment - and great fustration at times - has made led me to shift my activity from an active role to a more passive one. While active at the physical meetings, my engagement of late in the conference calls has been minimal and quite passive.

My silience on the lists has led some to believe that I'm not engaged at all. Well, I would beg to differ as my full-time position does focus on issues of user engagement, internet freedom and internet governance. Engagement is many different thing to different people. But, one thing is clear, my change in level of engagement, divergent views and different style has lead to an ongoing private agenda by some to attempt to force me out . Since the Cairo meeting, efforts have entensified. The choice of words in private email exchanges, have been surprising.

So, I prefer to recognize that there is a significant difference of opinion and pass on the opportunity to others .There are far too many other issues of importance that the group should - and must - focus on.

I wish you all luck, success - and that we can stay in touch.

Yours sincerely,

Robert Guerra Managing Director, Privaterra _______________________________________________ At-Large mailing list At-Large@atlarge-lists.icann.org http://atlarge-lists.icann.org/mailman/listinfo/at-large_atlarge-lists.icann...

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