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Warning constitutes 'hate speech'

Date published: 11/25/2009

Warning constitutes 'hate speech'

I've often wondered how letters to the editor are chosen for publication, as quite a few letters The Free Lance-Star prints seem to have little to do with what is actually in the daily paper.

However, Mike Steele's letter on Nov. 20 took the cake ["Everyone, take cover at these words"].

It consisted of two sentences: "I have instructed my family and friends to take cover when they hear the phrase 'Allahu Akbar.' This rule applies in public places aside from the mosque."

Having edited a college newspaper and taught journalism, I am familiar with the First Amendment; however, I'm also familiar with the concept of editorial restraint.

Mr. Steele's letter may have been referencing a current event--the shootings at Fort Hood--but this adds nothing to the conversation about this tragedy.

All the editors did was print hate speech, which is irresponsible and unbecoming of a community newspaper.

Tom Panarese

Ruckersville



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Date published: 11/25/2009


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prior, that's true (posted by True_Bob , Nov. 27, 2009 8:53 pm)   
only if you act like a racist.

unfortunately (posted by priorsquid , Nov. 26, 2009 3:01 pm)   
in todays society if you are a caucasion christian and you disagree with any other race, creed or religion you are considered a racist.

FEAR (posted by MGWork , Nov. 26, 2009 11:34 am)   
Haven't seen or heard this much fear and anger being stirred into a single recipe for hatred, isolation, uninformed postured positions, ignorance and one side of something many use and abuse to make a point. What parts of free speech don't we understand? What are we really afraid of, besides ourselves. Duck and dodge all you want today, but that's not going to keep tomorrow from coming. Next time around you might want to consider turning the light swith to ON before you enter the room next time.

Hate Speech (posted by ColBatGuano , Nov. 26, 2009 10:08 am)   
is a modern example of Newspeak, used to silence critics of social policies that have been poorly implemented in a rush to appear politically correct

WARNING! WARNING! Love speech approaching! (posted by kspecial , Nov. 25, 2009 5:47 pm)   
I hope all my friends here have a wonderful and safe Thanksgiving. I'd also like to be the first to wish you a Happy Christmas and a Merry New Year. "سعيد عيد الميلاد وعيد رأس السنة الجديدة."

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