[Python-cuba] More about PSF benefits when organizing Python-related events

[kirby urner]

The fact that PSF is a hub for networking
around Python-related merchandise is
another benefit of having PSF involved in
your event planning, your PyDay or
whatever event.

Yes, a lot of swag is of somewhat dubious
value and we've all been skeptical of the
swag bag contents we've received at whatever
geek conference (many of us go to several
in the average year).

A Gift Shop lets you pick and choose and
show your own personality.  That's an
advantage over swag bags:  you choose.

I would imagine that Cubans are highly
skeptical of US practices around branding,
given the extreme ulgification that occurs
with the spread of fast food franchise
aesthetics.

Havana is a global tourist destination in part
thanks to relative the *absence* of Coca-Cola
billboards and McDonalds advertising every-
where.  Any Python conference should remain
sensitive to this distrust of rampant
commercialism at the expense of human values
and basic aesthetics.  The PSF is not a
creature of the fast food industry.

So far be it from me to push a lot of bags
of dubious swag -- perhaps a PSF gift card
pre charged, choose your own selection?

I do want the PSF to continue cultivating
supply channels for a tasteful selection of
branded goods that allows Pythonistas to
show their pride in being members of this
tribe.  We stand for something.  Our PR
has already been like that.  Idealism is not
out of place.

Example:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/kirbyurner/3398043925/in/album-72157616066135225/
(note idealistic "save the world" stickers)

Purchasing a beer mug or clothing article
with the Python logo on it is not "selling out".

Everyone understands about sports teams
and showing loyalty.  The PSF is all about
helping fans of Python show their loyalty.

As a nonprofit, the proceeds from our direct
sales would go to scholarships and travel for
Pythonistas.  PSF helps with PyLadies and
other upstart meetups.  Buying our brand
shows your approval of our inclusiveness
and commitment to openness and freedom
in the coding world.

Kirby
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