Let’s get one thing straight: we’re here for an open and free internet—no gimmicks, no hidden agendas. If you’re a company preaching Web3 values while quietly gatekeeping, you’re part of the problem, not the solution.

It’s frustrating when major players in the Web3 space turn down partnerships with Brego. But you know what? Maybe that’s a blessing in disguise. If we’re truly committed to Web3 values—user-centricity, decentralization, and inclusivity—then closed doors and cliques don’t belong. Gatekeeping? That’s a massive red flag.

Over the years, we’ve seen that a lot of the rhetoric about openness and inclusion in Web3 is just that—rhetoric. Cronyism and grift have stained even the best efforts, turning what should have been a revolution into another playground for elites. But here’s the good news: the shakeout is happening. Platforms like Bluesky are starting to prove what’s possible with Web3 protocols.

Let’s call it now: when people connect the dots and realize Bluesky is built on blockchain technology, Web3 will regain momentum. Sure, maybe that’s optimistic—but we’ve called shifts before, like the xodus, and even when things didn’t play out exactly as expected, the change came. When one proof-of-concept succeeds, others will follow. Even the big players will have to evolve or get left behind.

Still, we can’t ignore the reality. Cronyism isn’t just part of the problem—it’s baked into tech and entertainment. That’s why we must build our own and compete. The rules are shifting to make that harder, but fragmentation of the old systems isn’t just a dream; it’s essential for progress.

And we’re speaking from experience. We’ve met with dozens of Web3 companies. Only one truly welcomed the conversation, and not surprisingly, their American division has a Black CEO. Meanwhile, here’s the kind of nonsense we usually face:

One founder asked, “Where are you from?”

We answered, “Rome, NY.”

They pressed, “Yeah, but where are you from?”

Our response? “America—Bitch. Where are you from?”

That equity and inclusion talk? It rarely materializes in Web3, and we see it for what it is.

Dreams don’t cook the meal; workers, investors, and doers do. Fragmentation of the old systems is essential, but action—not talk—will get us there. If we can’t contribute directly, we can at least be kind and encouraging. And if we can’t do that, then let’s step aside. Lead, follow, or get out of the way.

At the end of the day, our goal is clear: a world where we can bypass gatekeepers and live freely. It won’t be easy—it’ll take immense work and sacrifice—but it’s worth it. Let’s build that future together.