We, the undersigned, represent a collective of Austin's residents, service industry professionals, and dedicated supporters of our local dining culture. Our petition arises from a deep concern over the growing negative impact certain social media influencers have on our restaurants, with specific emphasis on the actions of Jane Ko (@ATasteofKoko).

Jane Ko's approach to food blogging—marked by instances of entitlement, disruptive behavior in restaurants, and unfair public criticism—has prompted us to call for accountability. Recent events, including unwarranted negative reviews and the spread of misinformation about local businesses, have underscored the urgent need for a conversation about the ethics of food blogging and social media influence.

Given Jane Ko's significant online following and her role in shaping perceptions of Austin's dining scene, it's crucial that her platform is used responsibly. The reported behavior not only disrespects the hard work of those in the hospitality industry but also misleads the public and can cause undue harm to the reputation and success of local eateries.

This behavior has been ongoing for quite some time and several in the industry have been afraid to speak up for fear of retaliation and backlash, especially in an economic time where it could make or break their businesses.

Therefore, we respectfully request the following:

A Boycott of Jane Ko (@ATasteofKoko): We encourage the community to critically evaluate the content and conduct of influencers, choosing to support those who engage with businesses ethically and constructively.

Removal of Jane Ko from SXSW Conference Participation: We believe that speakers and panelists should exemplify professionalism and respect towards the industries they represent. As such, we call on SXSW organizers to reconsider Jane Ko's involvement in upcoming events, promoting a standard of conduct that aligns with the values of Austin's vibrant and inclusive community.

A Call for Ethical Influence: We urge all food bloggers and influencers to adopt transparent, fair, and respectful practices when reviewing and promoting restaurants. This includes acknowledging any comped meals or partnerships, minimizing disruption to other diners, and providing constructive feedback directly to establishments.

We are committed to fostering a dining scene that thrives on mutual respect, integrity, and a shared love for Austin's culinary diversity. By addressing these concerns, we hope to promote a healthier, more ethical interaction between restaurants and the digital influencers who play a pivotal role in shaping their public image.