In the last year, we've seen cracks appearing in the foundation of the DRM status quo.
Of course, the companies that profit from Digital Restrictions Management (DRM) are still trying to expand the system of law and technology that weakens our security and curtails our rights, in an effort to prop up their exploitative business models.
But since the last International Day Against DRM, the TPP trade agreement—a key pro-DRM initiative—crashed and burned. And our allies at the Electronic Frontier Foundation brought major legal and regulatory challenges against DRM in Washington DC. As I write this, the chief arbiter of Web standards is receiving constant phone calls from Defective by Design members condemning his attempt to allow DRM into the technical fabric of the Web. If we play our cards right, this may be the beginning of the end of DRM.
On Sunday, July 9, 2017, we will channel this momentum into the International Day Against DRM. We'll be gathering, protesting, and making—showing the world that we insist on a future without Digital Restrictions Management. Will you join us? Here's what you can do now:
Plan a gathering or protest action
Bring the International Day Against DRM to your community. We support event planners of all experience levels by supplying printable materials, putting you in touch with other activists near you and online, and publicizing your event for maximum impact. Check out the amazing list of events from 2016's Day for inspiration and dive into the event planning guide. If you are interested in planning something for the day, please join the DRM Elimination Crew discussion list to receive important information for organizers. We also welcome you to reach out to info@defectivebydesign.org so we can find the best way to support your event.
Translate our flyer into your language
Even if you can't hand it out in your country, someone else might. All translations will be posted on defectivebydesign.org as they are completed. We've set up a translation area on the LibrePlanet wiki.
Write a blog post or make a video
Share your unique perspective on the dangers of DRM, and get ready to post on July 9th.
Join the conversation
The DRM Elimination crew discussion list and #dbd IRC channel on Freenode (irc.freenode.org) aren't just for event organizers. Join us there for year-round conversation and collaboration with the anti-DRM movement.
Get a nonprofit or community organization involved
To endorse the International Day Against DRM, send an email to campaigns@fsf.org including a vector image (ideal) or high-resolution bitmap of your logo, as well as the URL you would like the logo to link to.
Get a business involved
If you are affiliated with a business that sells DRM-free media, we'd love to help you join the shops offering promotions for the International Day Against DRM. Start by sending an email to info@defectivebydesign.org.
Support the organizers
Donate to support the International Day Against DRM. The Day is organized with love by a small team of activists at the Free Software Foundation. Thanks!
Image copyright Kori Feener 2016, licensed under Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0.