<p>As software based technology becomes more pervasive in our lives, it's vital

that we communicate the importance of software freedom to the wider population.

In that vein <a href="https://sfconservancy.org/news/2022/may/12/introduction/">we've created a video</a>

(narrated by our Executive Director Karen Sandler) that introduces

the ideas of software freedom, and specifically what Software Freedom

Conservancy does. We also did a lot of public writings about some of the

important issues this year. From <a href="https://sfconservancy.org/news/2023/feb/09/kuhn-neo4j-purethink-expert-report/">our perspective on the Neo4j suit</a>

to <a href="https://sfconservancy.org/news/2023/aug/15/exit-zoom/">highlighting problematic behavior from proprietary software companies</a> and calling for folks to Exit Zoom. We'd also like to

remind you that as a Sustainer, we will provide you with your own <a href="https://bbb.sfconservancy.org">BigBlueButton</a> account so that you can host your own video calls on a FOSS platform. Once

you have donated to us, you can fill our the new account signup and your

account will be approved.</p>

<div class="picture-small right">

  <a href="https://sfconservancy.org/videos/sfc-introduction_1080p.mp4"><img src="https://sfconservancy.org/videos/sfc-introduction-video_poster.jpg" alt="Thumbnail of video showing a tree and Software Freedom" /></a>

</div>

<h3 id="NewStaff">New staff!</h3>

<div data-read-more="Click more for on our new staff&hellip;">

<p>SFC hired two additional employees this year! General Counsel Rick Sanders

joins the team to help with our continued legal needs. Rick has over 20 years

experience as a intellectual-property litigator. His expertise has been

critical in helping our license compliance efforts and helping our organization

take on the increasing needs from projects and new initiatives. SFC's new

systems administrator is Paul Visscher. With over 20 years experience with

Linux and free software, Paul's belief in the power of free software to help

people engage with technology in non-exploitative ways fits in perfectly to