On Monday, June 1, Vital Communities announced the pausing of the Woodstock community listserv, effective immediately, in response to an increase in uncivil communication on the platform.

Vital Communities hosts 51 listservs throughout the Upper Valley as spaces for building connections and sharing information and opportunities that are consistent with the listserv’s guidelines. The listservs have historically been managed by volunteer community members. In recent months, the tone and nature of an increasing number of posts on the Woodstock listserv have fallen short of the standards of respect and professionalism that our guidelines require and that are essential to maintaining a healthy, constructive, and inclusive exchange and environment for all participants.

Vital Communities initiated a subscriber survey on May 25 to solicit community input regarding the listserv’s purpose, guidelines, and suggestions for changes that might enhance its effectiveness in community building. This pause will allow Vital Communities to review community guidelines and moderation practices and engage with the Woodstock community to ensure the listserv can continue to serve its intended purpose.

Vital Communities remains committed to fostering open, respectful communication and will share updates on next steps. We appreciate the community’s understanding and cooperation as we identify a path forward.

Editor’s note: The survey for Woodstock subscribers can be found here.