Before I would like to begin my discussion, I hope we can have a mature and objective discussion about this topic. Constructive feedback is encouraged!
The current PB2 discord server does not allow the usage of languages other than English in all channels.
I see no purpose in imposing this rule.
The main argument behind this rule is that it is hard to moderate chats of other languages.
This argument is flawed in two main factors:
1. Given that same reasoning, should other countries like the US ban usage of other languages because law enforcers cannot moderate the language used?
- In the case where it is offensive, if the staff members could not comprehend the languages used, wouldn't the general public not able to comprehend it too?
- For those who understood, they can always report the incident to staff.
- Google translate it is also a thing, not for proper translation, but for cross-referencing in case of an incident report.
- Besides, there are many people in the PB2 community that are able to translate for the staff.
I understand that an incident happened with two members of the community talking behind a staff members back, but ultimately is it the fault of the usage of the languages OR the two person themselves?
In the case where we want to protect our staff members, I don't think complete banning of languages makes sense. Spreading of hate speech is bound to happened in a public community, whether if the medium used is English.
2. Moderation is not performed consistently even for messages in English.
- I see many accounts of people posting inappropriate messages as well as contents in PB2 community. If the reasoning behind usage of languages is inability to moderate, than I think the general staff members should also moderate the channels better.
Create a multi-language channel.
Now, let's discuss about the benefits of having a multi-language channel.
1. A more comfortable medium for other users.
Not everyone in the PB2 community's main language is English. In fact, a lot of the members have a different 1st language. For PB2 members that aren't able to speak English properly, are they just resorted to
2. Sharing of other cultures, as well as identity purposes.
- Don't you feel pride when speaking in your native languages? Some of the people naturally likes to communicate in their native language, this gives them a sense of identity. Don't you think it will be awesome if you knew someone who has a similar culture background than you that plays PB2 as well?
- More over, don't you think it's cool to see other members of the community speak in their own native language?
- This can even aid members of the community who want to improve in a certain languages, and potentially create deeper bonds between members.
Even Eric Gurt feels this way!!!
There are so many people in the PB2 community who speaks a different native language. Why restrict all of them to only speak English? Banning usage of other languages is akin to banning the usage of kitchen knifes.
I sincerely hope to see one day, miraclously a multi-language channel will be born in the PB2 community.
#makemultilangchannel
Hope this topic helps spread awareness, and take care everyone.
Best regards,
Nyove