We’re happy to announce that the OpenStreetMap Foundation (OSMF) has recognized OpenStreetMap U.S. (OSMUS) as a local chapter serving the United States. Last month, the OSMF board approved the application we submitted in July.
OSMUS was founded in 2010 to promote and support OpenStreetMap in the U.S. Since then, our annual State of the Map U.S. conference and programs such as TeachOSM have set a standard for community engagement and outreach. The OSMUS Slack workspace gives mappers daily opportunities to learn, teach, and connect in a welcoming environment. Although OSMUS predates OSMF’s formal local chapter program, members of OSMUS have also participated in OSMF working groups over the years.
Formal affiliation with the OpenStreetMap Foundation will remove a source of confusion and distraction as we promote OSM behind the scenes. Whenever we reach out to a potential partner organization, they can be more confident that we stand for the OSM project. Meanwhile, we’re excited to work closely with the 12 other local chapters around the world – and counting – on new ways to strengthen our local communities and the global project.
In practical terms, however, formal recognition as a local chapter doesn’t change a thing. You’ve always interacted with the OSM project through websites and applications that aren’t limited to one country. But we hope you’ll also consider becoming a member of both OSMUS and OSMF, which continues to be a great way to show your support for the OSM project and influence its direction both at home and beyond.
If you have any questions, please reach out via Slack or send an email to team@openstreetmap.us.
