Wikipedia:Arbitration Committee Elections December 2024/Candidates/Liz/Statement

Liz

Introduction: I originally edited Wikipedia with the account User:Nwjerseyliz in 2007 but I mainly edited for years with IP accounts. In 2013, I discovered that the username "Liz" was available and have been Liz ever since. I originally worked a lot in the category namespace and on noticeboards but since becoming an administrator in 2015, I've spent my time on administrative tasks, specifically, taking care of stale drafts (CSD G13s), PROD'd articles and closing AFD discussions.

Philosophy: "Your 'if' is the only peacemaker; much virtue in 'if.'" As You Like It, Act 5, scene 4

I think this quote sums up much of my administrator philosophy. Unless there is blatant vandalism going on or content that violates BLP or copyright guidelines, I'm a believer in being open-minded and hearing all sides before coming to a conclusion. This carefulness can cause frustration from other editors who want quick, decisive action to be taken. But instead of slamming down the ban hammer, I like to understand what the situation is. Also, I have a lot of experience closing AFD discussions and determining the consensus from the participants' arguments. I think being thoughtful and deliberate will guide my process in handling arbitration cases if I am elected.

Goals: I served as an arbitration clerk for 2 years and much of my approach towards serving as an Arbitrator is colored by that experience. I prize transparency even though I realize that this is limited due to the private nature of the information that gets sent to the committee. Beyond transparency, my primary goal is to ensure that every legitimate inquiry of the committee gets acknowledged. As a clerk, I heard complaints from editors writing to the committee who didn't know if their message was received. I'd like to make certain that inquiries are responded to, even if a decision can not be rendered at that time.

Conclusion: I know enough about the committee to know that no one editor can come in and change the way it operates. And, in many ways, the committee is functional. But I think, given my experience and temperament, I will be a different kind of arbitrator than typically gets elected and I think the committee could also use the presence of more women.

Disclosure:I have never edited for pay and I will fully comply with the criteria for access to non-public data.