Declaration of an Independent Internet

The Declaration of an Independent Internet
Drafted July 4, 1995 and updated December 3, 2012 to Guide Us to a Safe Internet without Censorship

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all lawful information is created equal, that this information is endowed by its creator with certain inalienable rights, that among these is the right to be distributed via the Internet without governmental censorship. That whenever any legislation becomes destructive of these ends, it is the duty of the members of the Internet to oppose it, and to institute self-regulation, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect the sanctity of distribution and the safety of children.

Prudence, indeed, will dictate that regulations long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to accept censorship where none is required, than to right things by opposing such censorship. But when an unnecessary attempt at censorship, pursuing centralized control, evinces a design to place information under absolute Despotism, it is the right of the members of the Internet, it is their duty, to oppose such legislation, and to promote self-regulation.

We therefore, Representatives of the Online World, in cooperation, appealing to concerned people everywhere for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by the authority of the Internet Community, solemnly publish and declare, that this Internet represents all cultures, and of Right ought to be self-regulated and free from govermental censorship and interference. And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, We mutually pledge to each other and to our children, our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.