Plain Language Act of 2008 passes in the House!

[WION Destry]

Maybe after living in France for a while now my patriotism is a bit diluted, but I don't think the remarks that seem to have inspired the 'pro Plain Language Act' reactions were particularly negative or non-supportive to the Act. I didn't read into it any deeper than simple irony -- the very Act describing plain language was itself not written in plain language (or so the examples given were meant to show). 
 
There's nothing wrong in pointing out such ironies, especially in government where change is glacially slow (and we all know that). Consider the Paperwork Reduction Act, and yes, Section 508 is another good example. I worked at NOAA for 6 years where I watched paper waste pile up on a daily basis and our own web site failing every accessibility recommendation written (due to stove-pipe policy constraints) despite both pieces of legislation being well in effect. I doubt Section 508 would be where it is today if it were not for the non-STC web professionals in the world that brought greater public scrutiny to it by pointing out the very web sites that were supposed to abide by it.
 
Don't misinterprate me here. I fully appreciate what the Plain Language Act is all about and I applaud those who are champions in that effort. I also agree with Alice; simply because each of us doesn't shout about the PLA publically doesn't mean we don't fight the good fight on a daily basis, win or lose. (Likewise, I don't think this mail list represents STC, solely.)
 
My point is simply that despite whatever else, we are all members for a common, fundamental reason (assumingly) -- we appreciate clear communication. There's no harm in a little irony from time-to-time. It's like wine, good for the blood in moderation. And if irony carries on the wings of a moth to the ears of those writing amendments to the Act, all the better.
 
Go PLA!
 
Regards
 


Destry WION
Chef de Projet,
Spécialiste d'Ergonomie Web
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