We, the undersigned, do hereby ask that the internet hackers of the world unite for a simple purpose: To wall off all utterances by or references to U.S. President Donald J. Trump for a period of 24 hours.

Band together, pool your skills, pick a day -- maybe Aug. 16 -- and then do what you can.

We lay our petition at your doorstep for one reason: You're smarter than we are. Based on your past performance in stealing credit card or bank account numbers, invading industrial or banking vaults and confounding even government entities, you have proven yourselves the best in the business.

Please do not imagine that this petition is simply another liberal, white-whine soirée. Whether individuals honor or denigrate Mr. Trump, all will concede that his impact is profound and his presence is everywhere on the internet. A day off -- the same sort of barrier a parent might set up against a child's search for porn or violence -- is warranted and would be a relief.

Imagine what the internet news might look like without one word -- or even just significantly-fewer words -- written-by/spoken-by/inferred from Donald J. Trump.

For 24 hours.

We realize that our request will not be easy to fulfill. Indeed, it may be impossible. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and other so-called social connectors may be feasible hacking targets, but excising references made within news stories or commentary is probably beyond your skills. News organizations are likely to be outraged. There are likely to be heartfelt recitations of the First Amendment. But Mr. Trump is currently the leader of one of the world's great and powerful and rich nations. His presence is thus woven into a worldwide fabric as a tape worm is woven into a lower intestine.

Let's give it a rest.

Jobs, healthcare, infrastructure, immigration, global warming, racism, sexism, military build-ups and all the rest will still be there when Mr. Trump returns and reopens his mouth.

And what's the payback for all your hard work? Well, as always, there are bragging rights. But there is also the jackpot understanding that you have given back to a community that has given to you so generously in the past. And who knows, perhaps some well-endowed donor will offer a financial incentive for your effort. I wish I could but, like others, I'm too busy bracing for the tax 'benefits' we have been promised.

We thank you for your effort.