Looking at the acrimony to affect this forum in recent months, I feel we need to be honest and admit the linux scene can be a dangerous place for a business mindful of its reputation to contribute.
- Linux is rather sectarian compared to other operating systems.
- Much of its development and sponsorship comes from toxic “big tech” that does not support our values.
- Linux is too big for Framework to have much effect on.
My argument is that Framework does not have to direct its philanthropy into linux to support FOSS operating systems. It is not one of these firms whose whole identity is bound specifically to linux, such as Tuxedo. Instead it could use its platform to champion some of the more niche players. These would benefit tangibly from Framework support - whereas a free computer to linux development as a whole is a mere drop in the ocean - and can be selected to share our values. Here are a few suggestions.
Haiku. A very easy to use operating system inspired by BeOS. Out of all three, this is the most accessible as a “daily driver”.
Sculpt. Privacy focussed operating system from Germany. The developer, Genode labs, have a Framework in their testing fleet.
9Front. Based on Plan9, Bell labs successor to Unix. Their community is very lefty, if the homepage is any guide.
I play with a couple of these and it is always as delight to see them develop. Most importantly, I feel comfortable using them because their communities share my values. Instead of having to navigate a minefield to determine what I want to give drive space to on my computer. After all, if Framework cannot manage that vetting, what hope for the rest of us?