As the former news editor of a college newspaper, I recognize the value of free speech and the communication of ideas. I recognize that to enhance communications in the “Marketplace of Ideas” the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution has created, the press plays an important role. The press has the responsibility and duty to accurately report news to the public.
However, in doing so, the press has a duty to convey the news with neutrality and to report the news with impartiality. However, editors and columnists are given the opportunity to convey their personal viewpoints on hot news topics via the editorial pages of the paper.
I am writing this letter in response to an editorial written by Vijay Ramanavarapu, a columnist at The Lantern. The editorial was very well written, and I do not take offense to Mr. Ramanavarapu expressing his views toward U.S. policies. Every American has the right to criticize the policies and practices of their government.
However, the first paragraph of the editorial shocked me. It read as follows: “Even though Ronald Reagan can’t move very well or form coherent thoughts, he continues to wreak havoc on America.”
There are many ways that Mr. Ramanavarapu could have conveyed his thoughts on policies initiated during the Reagan era. Instead, Mr. Ramanavarapu chose to use a phrase relating to the mental health of one of America’s greatest leaders. This comment was in poor taste.
May Mr. Ramanavarapu never be inflicted with a debilitating disease such as Alzheimer’s disease. May he never have to care for a close family member or friend who has been inflicted with the disease. Perhaps then he would find his choice of words grossly inappropriate.
Laure Rakvicstudent in law
