I think there is a risk that using the Silent Keys listings to recognize donors will be used to further bolster the argument made by some that “ARRL is all about money”.
We already recognize donors in QST and in the League’s Annual Report.
Personally, I am also concerned that some members will be less inclined to want their calls listed in SK when they pass away because the absence of a special designator will make it clear they’re in the “non-donor” or “insignificant-donor” class.
I know of no other group, such as university alumni associations, that includes lifetime donation history in their equivalent to SK reporting.
The Silent Key listing serves to pay our respect to all deceased members, not to create financially based classes or tiers. Can’t we put money aside when paying this one final tribute?
73,
Dick, N6AA