Today (just like every day) we’re supporting net neutrality on WordPress.com. What’s different about today, is that we’re also offering a plugin that WordPress.com bloggers can install to show their support too. Many other sites are doing the same.

Net neutrality is a fundamental principle of the internet, and without it, it’s doubtful that we’d have seen anywhere near the amount of internet start-ups, free expression….or cat gifs that all make the internet awesome.

Sadly, net neutrality is very much at risk – not unlike many of the other freedoms that we’ve always enjoyed online. I’m personally really optimistic that the free and open internet will survive. The big difference is that there are more forces working against it than ever before, so we just can’t stand by and take our internet for granted. In the words of Thomas Jefferson: “The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.” Translation – freedom is not free, and there are going to be some battles for the soul of the internet along the way. Sometimes they’re with governments that choose to censor their citizens, other times with big companies who want to exert control, or make rules for their own benefit. It’s only the vigilance of passionate individuals and companies that have a conscience that will keep them in check. Fortunately, there is a large and growing number of both.

The battle for net neutrality isn’t the first and won’t be the last one we fight for the internet we know and love. But fight we must. That’s why it’s important to pay attention and get involved. Get in touch with Congress or the FCC and let them know you care. How? Go here…and send a quick note to the FCC. Today’s the day!