Reddit has been in our heart for just a few months. That’s a short time by meatspace standards. But it’s ancient by virtual reckoning. Reddit has remained “sticky” for us where Digg failed a long time ago. Also, we’re hard pressed to recall a time when Digg users did something this awesome.
The idea of the Colbert Rally came about when, on August 28th, a Pink-Faced Half-Wit decided to rally his troops congregation followers in Washington, DC. Just what they’re riled-up about remains unclear to our logic. But that’s not important.
What is important is that some grand Redditor posited the idea that “Colbert needs to hold a satirical rally in DC.” This idea snowballed on the Internets into ColbertRally.com.
This ball continued to roll downhill until The Daily Show and Colbert Report returned from their week break. Internet continued to push, as only the Internet can, to make the Restore Truthiness to become a reality.
In the meantime, Reddit formed a charity to Restore Truthiness to the Classroom. It’s goal: raise $500,00 USD by October 1, 2010. As of this posting it’s raised $237, 873 USD. Not bad. Not bad at all. (If you wish to donate just go to: http://www.colbertrally.com/donate )
Mr Colbert was so moved by the amount of money raised for USA schools that he thanked Reddit with this verified and sweet note.
Dear Redditors,
Ever since the visit of one of your Dear Leaders, Alexis “kn0thing” Ohanian, my inbox has been orangered with pleas to “Restore Truthiness.” The track record of your hivemind speaks for itself. Mr. Splashypants got a name. You rescued Soapier. You frightened the sweet-and-sour Jesus out of a 90-year-old man on his birthday. Despite how silly and nonsexual reddit can be, your true colors show when someone is in need.
I almost had a pregnant when I saw what you had done at DonorsChoose.org for classrooms around the country. I am humbled and honored (a rare combination for me), and find myself wishing there was a Look of Approval.
You have inspired me by helping untold thousands of students; with the momentum you’ve created, we could stage a hundred rallies. I might just call on you, Redditors – for nothing is more terrifying than tens of thousands of Heroes taking to the streets with the faint odor of bacon wafting behind them. Except for bears, obviously.One huge upvote for you.
Sir Dr. Stephen T. Colbert, DFA
And he sent, Alexis Ohanian, Reddit co-founder, an photo of thanks.
Now, as of September 16, 2010, all the papers have been signed and the announcements have been made. On October 30, 2010, the “Jon Stewart – Rally to Restore Sanity” and the “Stephen Colbert – March to Keep Fear Alive!” will come to Washington, DC.
Raising money for schools. Being the voice of reason in the night. Raising awareness of other reasonable voices.
That’s Reddit. Helping people.
Links to all the official sites we could muster and a Big Think interview with Alexis Ohanian on how Reddit has used its powers for awesome(before the recent happenings) lay below the cut.
Official sites:
http://www.colbertrally.com/
http://www.reddit.com/r/colbertrally
Restore Truthiness to the Classroom
http://www.facebook.com/colbertrally
http://www.rallytorestoresanity.com/
http://www.keepfearalive.com/
