Dear Nina, Lovenotevol and Perplexed (NZ),
I do not think you understand the reasoning behind Ken’s stand on not encouraging pseudonyms and Koro’s concerns over the fact that you as anonymous writers were being allowed to contribute to the
Banaban Message Board and comment through
www.banabanvoice.com
Both these sites are open to the public and encourage dialogue, comments and ideas. Ken in his elder’s role as a Banaban believes it his duty to guide and encourage his young generation to embrace this new technology wherever they may reside in the world and at the same time show a level of responsibility for their comments and actions thought this medium. Ken believes that all comments that are presented on these sites proudly carry the Banaban name, and must reflect the normal Banaban etiquette and customs found within the culture, regardless of this new found technology. We are well aware of the dangers and disadvantages that inadvertently come with this medium. We are not allowing the sites to be used as a dating service, permitting obscene or bad language, inappropriate photographs or videos. While this is common on many other youth orientated websites and online chat groups, Ken is keen to encourage Banabans of all ages to embrace this new form of technology for the good of all.
While you may believe your comments are adding vigor to various discussions, it is not fair for the Banabans who are contributing to these sites to have people challenging their comments especially when they have no knowledge of the background behind these conversations. Please remember that all the Banabans on these sites are all linked via their family connections and that visitors will not be aware that virtually all the Banabans you are making comment about are family. There are also many nuances within Banaban culture, especially in regard to how family members interact with each other that is entirely appropriate within the culture, yet to others, especially from western society, these actions may seen inappropriate.
The same can be said regarding sensitive issues. While most western societies believe it is a positive to encourage discussions and debate many Banabans may not share this opinion preferring to keep their views amongst family and friends. This is why remaining anonymous ends up being a one-sided affair when the participants have no idea of your background, your motives and more importantly- identity. We are also a bit lost as to why these Anon writers are from New Zealand and for some reason believe it is not appropriate to have their identities known.
So let’s be fair to all the Banabans and members of Banaban Voice who have shown the strength of character to proudly state their opinions and voice their ideas to try and contribute to the community as a whole. There can be NO two sides to a story when people have no idea to whom they are talking with. So if you care about the future of the Banabans as you have stated please put a name and face to your comments to be fair to everyone else.
Regards Stacey