"Back the Net" was conceived by Michael Tchong, founder and CEO of Iconocast.com. The company Web site proclaims, "Netizens of the World Unite! When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to shake the commercial bands which have connected them with another, they should declare their independence."

The organizers have called for free access to uncensored content, the ability to shop online and "the general pursuit of e-happiness."

According to Iconocast, "Fueled by a viral lack of confidence, the Internet economy has slipped into a recession. If this trend continues, you might soon lose access to your favorite online store, greeting card site, news source, music site or financial chat group."

As a means of demonstrating e-confidence, the organizers are calling for surfers to "band together and send the world a loud, clear message that the Net will not only survive, but thrive." Web users are asked to demonstrate Web confidence by donating to a favorite charity online and to support the Web economy by making at least one purchase online or buying 10 shares in a dot-com company on April 3.

Excite At Home has joined the movement by offering a special greeting card on their Blue Mountain site which promotes the concept, and can be sent online by supporters to others urging them to participate in the action.

Rock-rap group Operatica has dedicated its song "Get Off My Land" to the movement.

"The Internet is very young. Some mistakes have been made. But this budding industry still needs your support. Your participation will send a signal to Wall Street that Netizens will not abandon their favorite medium," said Tchong.

A site dedicated to the movement is at http://www.iconocast.com/crusade/index.html .

Reported by Newsbytes.com, http://www.newsbytes.com .