[stld-rfp-xxx] A Responsible First Step for the Adult Industry

["Lawrence G. Walters" <larry@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

 For the good of the adult Internet industry, this proposal should be approved.  Having provided legal representation to the adult webmaster community since 1995, along with other facets of the adult industry for years before, I’ve seen many unsuccessful attempts to organize and speak with a united voice.  Organizing in the adult Internet industry is essential; just as it is with any other highly-regulated industry.  My law firm has represented the adult industry for over 40 years, and has been involved in many organizing efforts.   It may be that the only way for this particular facet of the industry to organize is through a non-profit foundation structured to support both the online adult community and the broader Internet community funded through .xxx registration revenue. A .xxx domain name option will eventually become a reality, and the current proposal will result in significant benefit to the industry as a whole, given the significant funding that IFFOR could potentially secure for the purposes of lobbying, legal defense, and media outreach.

When compared to a generic TLD proposal, the current Sponsored TLD proposal is definitely preferable.  In light of the current political climate in the United States and elsewhere, IFFOR could become a critical voice for the continued viability and success of the adult website industry.  Regardless of one’s feelings concerning the esoteric advisability of a voluntary .xxx domain name registration option, the practical realities must be addressed.  Some entity will ultimately convince ICANN to approve a TLD for the adult industry.  The current proposal by ICM Registries, Inc., sponsored by IFFOR, will bestow benefits on the industry which far outweigh any of the potential concerns advanced to date.  The webmaster community should get behind this proposal which will give something back, instead of waiting for another group to submit a generic TLD proposal based purely on profit motive.