Excellent post, GG!
I have to say I am in agreement with you that the industry has generally lacked foresight and unity in opposing the unsubstantiated allegations continually being made against it and the political and enforcement activity that has ensued as a consequence.
These political and enforcement people too often go unchallenged in their statements and their actions.
High profile guys like Nigel Payne, David Carruthers and others including the courageous Michael Corfman have pretty much been left to defend the industry in isolated contacts with the media or in legal jousts with the DoJ.
Perhaps this lack of collective commitment was through complacency, or perhaps an ill-advised reluctance to invest the significant sums necessary to protect oneself by protecting and promoting the industry at the levels necessary.
I recall at one time some fairly substantial lobbyist funds were going through the IGC but I think this sort of behind-the-scenes political persuasion is only one element in the sort of business and communications strategy needed to really hit hard with a consistent industry perspective.
Unfortunately, I don't see too many indicators even now that this fragmented approach will change anytime soon.
I have to say I am in agreement with you that the industry has generally lacked foresight and unity in opposing the unsubstantiated allegations continually being made against it and the political and enforcement activity that has ensued as a consequence.
These political and enforcement people too often go unchallenged in their statements and their actions.
High profile guys like Nigel Payne, David Carruthers and others including the courageous Michael Corfman have pretty much been left to defend the industry in isolated contacts with the media or in legal jousts with the DoJ.
Perhaps this lack of collective commitment was through complacency, or perhaps an ill-advised reluctance to invest the significant sums necessary to protect oneself by protecting and promoting the industry at the levels necessary.
I recall at one time some fairly substantial lobbyist funds were going through the IGC but I think this sort of behind-the-scenes political persuasion is only one element in the sort of business and communications strategy needed to really hit hard with a consistent industry perspective.
Unfortunately, I don't see too many indicators even now that this fragmented approach will change anytime soon.