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Dear Free Software Supporter,

It was just last week that Windows 7 [crossed into the afterlife][1].
While we can't say we've been in mourning, we have spent that time
thinking back on Windows 7's [legacy of abusing users][2], and
reflecting on Microsoft's change in tone over the last few years. For
one, they now state clearly that Microsoft "[loves open source][3]"
([sic][4]).

[1]:[link removed]
[2]:[link removed]
[3]:[link removed]
[4]:[link removed]

But things were not always this way, and we can thank software
activists around the world for making the message of software freedom
too loud to ignore. In the headlines we've seen many stories of people
feeling burned by the support cutoff, and justifiably angry by being
forced to upgrade. Microsoft is leaving its users high and dry, but
they don't have to. There is another option.

Microsoft has taken a few steps in the right direction, such as
releasing some small but important components of Windows as free
software. We want to push them to go further. We need Microsoft to
prove to the world that their "love" of free software isn't just an ad
campaign, and that they aren't just reaping the benefits of free
software in order to exploit users.

They can do this by releasing Windows 7 under a free software license.
The history of free software has shown us that software doesn't have
to expire, and can even be written to [last fifty years][5]. And now
that this version of their operating system has reached its
["end-of-life,"][6] they have no good reason not to.

[5]:[link removed]
[6]:[link removed](product)

We need your help to urge Microsoft to give Windows 7 to the
community. It is our aim to get 7,777 supporters to take a stand for
user freedom. [Sign the petition][7] here.

[7]:[link removed]

In addition to signing, you can:

* Share the #UpcycleWindows7 [image][8] to show your support of the
campaign.

* [Share on social media][9] that you've signed the petition. Write
your own message, or feel free to use ours:

**Microsoft's support of Windows 7 is over, but its life doesn't
have to end. Join me in calling on Microsoft to #UpcycleWindows7 by
signing <[link removed]>**

[8]:[link removed]
[9]:[link removed]

In solidarity,

Greg Farough
Campaigns Manager

--
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Sent from the Free Software Foundation,

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