Want Net Neutrality? Join #internetslowdown Day

slow internet gifThis Wednesday, September 10, is Internet Slowdown Day. Cable and telecom companies want to slow down (and break!) your favorite sites, for profit, unless Internet companies pay them extra for faster loading. Large companies who are forced to do so will probably pass on the extra costs to the consumers. Small companies will be adversely affected. I’m afraid this could be disastrous for small publishers and indie authors.

Not sure what this is all about? Well, here’s John Oliver’s brilliant and hilarious comments on Net Neutrality from his HBO show, Last Week Tonight. He explains the situation as well as anyone can and makes it entertaining in the bargain. Warning: language not safe for work.

I love the ending where he channels the Wicked Witch of the West. The day after this segment first aired, the FCC site crashed under the weight of the comments.

If you want to keep Internet access equal, please let your members of Congress and the FCC know. (FCC Dockets 14-28 and 10-127) Or just sign the petition at Save the Internet. I did.

But don’t be surprised if things are a bit slow on Wednesday.

Linda