Here is a good article on why you cant discuss pricing:
http://www.hwg.org/resources/faqs/priceFAQ.html The U.S. law specifically makes discussion of pricing between competitors (all or some) a federal offense. According to either Marshall Kragen or Lewis Rose (both practicing lawyers), several brokers in DC were successfully prosecuted for simply discussing an increase of fees at a dinner meeting.
When, where, or how doesn't matter. Any discussion of pricing by a group of people within the same industry is illegal in the U.S. The feds call it price fixing.
Seems a bit over the top if its just young designers trying to figure out what the standard rates are for freelance design but I guess we better play it safe and not discuss pricing at all.
So please do not discuss pricing =)