In case my position isn't clear, I also want to spell it out:
- I don't approve of zero-tolerance policies in general. But if there's one in place, it needs to be applied evenly and fairly. The time to revise it is not when there's a case on the table, especially a high-profile case, of a high-profile or popular person.
- It seems clear from the visible evidence that regardless of the policy issues, Rene Walling is a serial harasser, and it is appropriate to ban him from ReaderCon for life.
- I think, with regret, that the current Board of ReaderCon needs to step down. They have acted in a way that has destroyed a lot of public confidence and trust in the convention; if they care about its ongoing health, the best thing they can do for the convention is to let a fresh group take over.
- That said, it's very difficult to find committed volunteers to run conventions. If you care about this convention and are able to volunteer to help with it, now is a good time to make that clear to the concom, especially if you can make a serious time commitment.
- ReaderCon is a wonderful con -- I attended many years ago, and was invited to be a panelist again this year. If I hadn't already committed to three other major cons, I might have gone; I was seriously considering it. I won't be attending again unless Rene is banned. It is important to me that people attending ReaderCon (or any SF/F convention) be able to feel safe in what should be both a fun and professional environment.