Premise

FIAB Segrateciclabile is a local association, promoting cycling as a mean of transport, part of a national FIAB association. What follows is the translation of an Italian post where we share with members of the association why we opened an account on Mastodon (we already have Facebook an IG). I though it would be interesting to share in thos space, since I think this kind of associations should all be on the fediverse, as their values usually align much better than those of X, Facebook etc.

Why FIAB SegrateCiclabile opened an account on Mastodon

FIAB SegrateCiclabile recently opened an account on Mastodon @FIABSegrateCiclabile@mastodon.uno where we share events and news from our FIAB Ciclobby section.

What is Mastodon ?

Mastodon is a social network similar to Twitter, but with different principles. Users only see posts from those who follow, in chronological order, without ads. Unlike Twitter or Facebook, Mastodon is part of a larger network (called Fediverse) composed of many connected servers (called instances). Anyone can open one and be part of it, creating a decentralized environment. This means that no one can control everything, as it does with the big platforms.

What does Mastodon have in common with sustainable mobility?

Mastodon and the Fediverse share values with cycling and sustainable mobility, as they arise from grassroots with the aim of solving the structural problems of mainstream solutions.

Freedom and Inclusion

Unlike traditional social media, Mastodon does not require personal data to access content. It promotes an inclusive environment, where hate speech is not tolerated. FIAB is committed to a mobility accessible to all, not only to those who own a car, a driver’s license and the ability and the economic possibility of using it.

Community and Participation

Those who ride a bicycle have a deeper connection with their surroundings. The car isolates, while the bike favors genuine interactions. In the Fediverse, users can connect authentically, with no algorithms that manipulate their choices.

Democracy of the Spaces

The Fediverse represents a reaction to the commercialization of the Internet, giving control back to users. Likewise, FIAB fights to give public space back to people, not cars.

Conclusion

In an era dominated by large corporations, it is essential to enhance digital spaces like Mastodon. These instruments promote freedom of expression, inclusion and democracy, reflecting FIAB. We invite everyone to explore Mastodon and join a community that values genuine connections.

Freedom and democracy must exist in both physical and digital spaces.