zlacker

It's easier to get the support of 500 educated people at a moments notice by using sane words like 'may'. This is rational given the lack of public information as well as a board that seems to be having seizures. Using the word 'may' may seem empty-handed; but it ensures a longer list of names attached to the message -- allowing the board a better glimpse of how many dominoes are lined up to fall.

The board is being given a sanity-check; I would expect the signers intentionally left themselves a bit of room for escalation/negotiation.

How often do you win arguments by leading off with an immutable ultimatum?

>>gorlil+(OP)
Right, but the absolute last thought you want in the board's head is: "they're bluffing."

200 people or even 50 of the right people who are definitely going to resign will be much stronger than 500+ who "may" resign.

Disclaimer that this is a ludicrously difficult situation for all these folks, and my critique here is made from far outside the arena. I am in no way claiming that I would be executing this better in actual reality and I'm extremely fortunate not to be in their shoes.