On May 15, 1997 the International Internet Genealogical Society was established.
The establishment of this organization was publicly declared via the various instruments of the internet. The names IIGS™ and International Internet Genealogical Society have been in constant, consistent, and public use to carry on the business of the society since May 15, 1997.
Also on June 1,1997 the domain name "IIGS.ORG" was registered to the organization. Since that time, these names have been prominently displayed upon the IIGS™ website and upon each of the IIGS™ maillists, and in every other communication supported by this organization.
Since June of 1997, the IIGS™ website has been dressed with an unmistakable and unique appearance. The IIGS™ Style Guide, which describes such trade dress, has been publicly available since June 29, 1997. Every internal and external form of IIGS™ contains these aspects.
For the past fifteen months, the names IIGS™ and International Internet Genealogical Society have been publicized via international email, ezines, IRC channels, newsgroups, maillists and websites. The organization has been publicized via radio broadcasts, international newspapers, and genealogical society newsletters.
Through the powers and resources of the internet and those of international genealogical organizations, IIGS™ has distinguished itself as a distinct and identifiable entity.
Recently, certain individuals have sought to confuse this identification. They have attempted to create an unsavory association using the IIGS™ name.
We have successfully defended the usurpation of the IIGS™ name and property once this year. We will continue to protect our rights to the name, the trade dress, the trade name, trademark, the domain name, et al, against tarnishment or dilution of such by any other organization or individual.
Revised: 10 Aug. 1998