> It always rubbed me the wrong way though, like the welcomer is trying to establish a hierarchy or draw attention away from the contents of my message itself.

> It always rubbed me the wrong way though, like the welcomer is trying to establish a hierarchy or draw attention away from the contents of my message itself. I don't think that's how it's usually intended, and I don't think that's how most people interpret it. I'm sure there are examples where it is, but that's not normally why people do it. I have moderated a couple forums, and I have welcomed new people. The underlying intent was always "I'm really glad you're here, I hope you stick around, and do not under any circumstances feel like there is a trial period where you should be afraid to speak up."