Time will tell.
If, as some seem ‘hell-bent’ to do on the open threads . . .
using EXCESSIVE EGREGIOUS DOUBLE STANDARD PERSONAL ATTACK
stuff to sabotage such threads wholesale . . .
then the new designation will be stillborn.
IF
on the other hand we all try and make the designation work, It will likely be anemic or die because of low attendance.
******************
That might have been true if the "open" thread rules had not been altered. The "open" threads are now even more "open" than previously, and so this new "ecumenical" option gives us something between that and the "caucus" threads. An option for discussion without rancor affecting the conversation.