Why I've Unsubscribed from Areivim

I've finally unsubscribed from Areivim (not from Avodah), a list I cofounded in the '90s. The advent of blogging made it largely marginal and irrelevant, but there was still some independent value in a forum of identified peers, as opposed to the comments sections on blogs.

Finally, however, the moderation became too onerous. I wrote in yesterday, concerning the Kiddush Hashem that came about through my talmid at MTA, Calev Lebowitz, recounting a frustrated email that I sent the AIA. The email read:

Your implication that Calev Lebowitz (a talmid of mine) acted
inappropriately or precipitously in any way, shape or form is vile
slander, and you should ask his mechilah forthwith. An even more
egregious statement was made by Rabbi Shafran in its far more direct
implication. The AIA continues down the slippery slope of irrelevancy
that began with its incomprehensible, irresponsible and downright
stupid closing of the JO.

It seems that Agudath Yisrael of America seems to agree that
sensitivity training is necessary and has already made up brochures
[according to what you wrote] and has worked with the TSA to educate
them. This makes it an even more egregious insult to Jews that the
stewardess and pilot would do what they did, as they could have and
should have known better. All airlines should require their personnel
to have this training and if there is no public outcry then they will
not have any reason to do so.

The fact that the Agudah is telling people to be cautious and to
alert airline staff as to what they are doing is not because the bachur
did anything wrong, but just an added caution to help inform others who
wish to listen so as to attempt to keep them calmer. This does not
guarantee a positive response and does not make what was done to the
bachur right or correct. If Jews there do not speak up they will
continue to be treated badly.

The Moderator at Areivim rejected this post, saying:

We found the tone of your words to be more likely to add heat to
the discussion rather than light. This does not mean the content is
inappropriate. If you can find a way of making the same point in a
manner more likely to lead to constructive conversation, kindly do so
and re-submit.

It may be helpful to consider the following question when rewriting:
Is this how I would say it if I were standing in a room with all of
the list's diverse membership in earshot?

Thank you,
The Areivim Moderation Team

To which I responded:

Go jump in the lake. I am reporting what I wrote, no more no less.

I'm tired of this. I'm unsubscribing. Be well.

KT,
YGB