Many of the letters we get have strong points of view on one side or the other of a debate. That’s not surprisinggenerally those who take the time to go to their computer and compose a letter are motivated to do so because they feel strongly about what they have to say. And I enjoy it when letter writers make strong points.
During the legislative session, we have seen sharp divides in opinion over whether the state should institute education savings accounts, make public records law changes or join a summer feeding program for low-income kids. That’s why I often let you know how many letters we get for or against an issue.
However sometimes, some issues are not so clear cut, or at least, we see writers expressing more nuanced views. So it’s hard to say they’re for or against a particular issue. That was the case as I looked at letters throughout the week regarding campus protests involving the war in Gaza. Many of you wrote to say you were following the protests closely, and certainly some were highly critical of students who blocked roads or broke into buildings. Yet while many opposed some of the students’ methods, a good number of you said you recognized that free speech is a right worth protecting and that the students are part of the time-honored tradition of campus protests stretching back decades. I know that could change if the protests here drag on or become more disruptive as they have in other places. Still, it seemed too simplistic to count the number who were “for” or “against” campus protests.
In addition, some of you wanted us to add historical context to the protests and make sure that we weren’t simply parroting the talking points of the protesters or of supporters of Israel. I assure you it’s a discussion editors and reporters have had many times in our newsroom. This issue is complex, and we know you want us to present the full picture.
Looking at the letters over the week, we received a total of 69 letters, and 14 of those dealt with the campus protests. It was the first time in a number of weeks that any topic has generated more letters than the current legislation session. On the bills being debated in the session, we received 10 letters, with four of those on the subject of changes in public records law. All were opposed.
But hard news wasn’t all you were following this week. The Pelicans' playoff fizzle and Jazz Fest’s sizzle prompted two letters each. It was a week of highs and lows.