Reddit

The removal of Victoria Taylor as Ask Me Anything administrator on Reddit has been nothing if not controversial. The latest in a string of controversies to hit the largely community-run discussion forum, following a user revolt over anti-harrassment policies, Taylor's dismissal led Reddit CEO Ellen Pao to issue a formal apology to users earlier this week.

Now though, Taylor is back on Reddit -- but on the other side of the digital fence. In a farewell post to the r/Self subreddit, she reflects on her time at the company and some of the fallout of the past week. "I'll never forget my time at reddit. You allowed me to be a part of some of the greatest conversations of our time, and it was an honor to be your ambassador," Taylor wrote. "I just want to take a moment to say thank you to all of you who have reached out."


Reddit's AMA sessions were a key feature of the site, and Taylor had been regarded as integral to their success. She had found speakers to take part in the public Q+A events -- from Buzz Aldrin to Barack Obama -- and heavily interacted with the community, which helped build the "town hall" vibe to the chats.

Although Taylor doesn't directly touch on the backlash on Reddit following her dismissal, she does hint at the power of the community. She says, "I've been incredibly humbled and honored to serve this community, and I truly believe all voices matter. Your voices matter. You proved that this weekend."

The response from the community has been an outpouring of support. Reddit user u/Harasoluka posted "There were so many AMAs that would have been disasters without her. She really has made Reddit shine in some brilliant ways these past years," while u/ZeroAntagonist offered career advice with "I know it's bitterswet. But, Victoria is going to get some amazing offers. The amount of support she has gotten from everyone is going to make her a VERY valuable employee. [...] Start consulting and be your own boss. Make a fortune."

Taylor hasn't confirmed her next move, saying she's "still figuring that out". Reddit itself, meanwhile, is looking to overhaul its community operations, with Pao promising greater powers for mods in future.