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The
Chart
staff may be taking some heat, but we will not get out of the kitchen. A
controversial column published Oct. 11 about one editor s view on
Christianity is causing plenty of debate and backlash. But The Chart
members will not back down. We stand by our decision to print the column
based on our First Amendment rights. While
the entire staff may not agree with what the column said, we all back
the editor s constitutional right to say it. The
First Amendment protects freedom of the press, religion and speech, all
of which Josh Ray exercised in his column. The 14th Amendment also
protects the media. In
addition, The Chart Manual of Operations gives Chart
members the right to report and editorialize on events, ideas and
issues . . .
even though these may be unpopular or controversial. It also
encourages the staff to seek and present contrasting views. And
members cannot be dismissed because of student, faculty, staff,
administrative or public disapproval of editorial policy or content. The
writer seems to be well-defended. While
journalists are normally required to remain objective, these columns
give us a chance to speak our minds. Our goal is not to make the readers
angry, but to express our opinions and open a free flow of ideas. The
Chart
welcomes and encourages letters to the editor featuring viewpoints in
contrast and in support of the column. The readers have the same rights
as the writer to express their thoughts. But please remember, harsh words and threats from those who disagree with the column only prove the editor s point. |
