If there were dozens or hundreds of Mobile Linux projects, this situation would matter less. In reality, there are only a few active and relevant ones: postmarketOS, Mobian, NixOS Mobile, Phosh, etc.
After receiving a carefully worded email from the postmarketOS core team, I came away with a strong impression that the project has chosen to use its Code of Conduct (CoC) processes in a way that advances internal agendas rather than fostering constructive cooperation and healthy project relationships.
This is disappointing.
Prior to that email, I participated in a two-and-a-half-hour call with members of the CoC team (three out of four members were present, including one who had previously shared a private conversation referenced in an earlier blog post). Based on that discussion, I reached the following conclusions about the current situation within postmarketOS:
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Personal agendas appear to be prioritized over maintaining good internal relationships.
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The Code of Conduct is being used, at least in part, as a mechanism for managing power dynamics and personal insecurities rather than as a neutral governance tool.
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There is a lack of transparency. One CoC member acknowledged that information they had provided about the CoC process was misinterpreted. While I cannot determine intent, no effort has been made to clarify or correct that information to this day.
From my perspective, this is a bloody mess.
As a result, I have decided to step away from the postmarketOS project and request that I no longer be associated with it in any capacity.
Fortunately, there are many other projects with leadership structures I consider fair and constructive. I will continue contributing my efforts there, with the goal of advancing Mobile Linux as a first-class platform.