Image credit: Chang.org

After years of issues with its name and a recent petition Gearsltuz will be changing their name.

Recently we reported that there was a petition that asked the audio enthusiasts blog to change its name due to its offensive and demeaning nature. The petition had a target of 5000 signatures, a number it reached. 

Cam Ran, who started the petition wrote: “Most of the engineers I know feel uncomfortable with the name.” She continues: “It might not seem like a big deal, and people will likely say that we should focus our energies on bigger issues of equality, but we can do both. We can talk about the things in our community that make us uncomfortable, starting with this website created by men, who have never been called ‘slut’ in a hateful and derogatory way. Who have never had to prove their merit in their field simply because of their gender. Who have never had someone assume that their level of success was due to the fact that they slept with the right person.” 

Cam further states: “Aside from making some people feel a bit upset, it’s also just a very unprofessional name that makes people uncomfortable in an educational environment or workplace… If you’re angered or annoyed by this request, truly ask yourself why.”

At first, Jules Standen, founder of the site doubled down and defended the name but after a reflection and plenty of negative reactions, the decision to change the name was made. 

In a statement regarding changing the name Jules said: “Your thoughtful petition has generated debate on both social media and our forum, and we hear you. The team and I recognise and agree that it is now time for the site to move forward. Gearslutz will change its name. We have not yet decided what it will be, but we can assure you that the new name will be inclusive, and will stand the test of time. This important process is going to take a while as it is a significant technical task. Thus, we are asking you to bear with us as we embark on it. Thanks and here’s to the future!”

Listen to the interview with Working Class Audio, where Jules talks the recent petition here:

The name change is expected to be implemented within the year but to what has not been announced yet.