Top Tech Companies Pledge to “Go Slow” for Net Neutrality

Net neutrality has been a scorching hot topic ever since the D.C. Court of Appeals struck down the rules put in place by the FCC to ensure fair and equal internet speeds for all. In protest, several tech firms will band together in a “go slow” protest on September 10^th, five days ahead of the end of the FCC’s comment period on proposed internet rules.

Companies like Foursquare, Etsy, Mozilla, Reddit, and Kickstarter, in conjunction with the Silicon Valley lobbying firm Engine, have committed to using a revolving wheel-like icon in banner or widget form to symbolize slow loading. The main purpose for the show of solidarity is to encourage viewers to reach out and contact policymakers about the FCC’s planned changes to internet rules. Though the exact changes are not yet known, the proposed rules could either uphold an open web or be the catalyst for controversial and unpopular fast and slow lanes.

Many believe that maintaining net neutrality would keep major internet service providers like Verizon or Comcast from controlling the speeds of access to websites and content and driving up prices for internet access, much like cable TV.

The “go slow” initiative also includes support from Cheezburger, Meetup, Dwolla, General Assembly, Namecheap and Vimeo.