This is a struggle every online network/community/system that I have been part of has grappled with — how to keep the doors as wide open as possible for as diverse a global group of learners as possible while still respecting the space and intent itself. I suppose at some point, a few are “chosen” to speak out for the “many” and they officially or unofficially become that elite voice you so artfully deconstruct here, Maha. It’s important that we all do what we can to make sure barriers to entry are low, that the ethos is one of welcome for all, and that we acknowledge that maybe we aren’t always doing nearly enough … because human nature has us falling into pockets of comfort most of time. Let’s keep the doors open wide and learn from each other, not just from the voice that sounds like our own voices. Every space has the potential to be a rich space of learning and understanding.
Peace,
Kevin