Local Newspapers have a responsibility
The financial considerations and avowed commitment to reporting only news that is specific and pertinent to the local constituencies is understandable, but it is now imperative that all local newspapers on the internet, or in printed form, must report what is transpiring as a result of the new presidential administration. Only covering local or state issues implies that all the world beyond is normal and seemingly inconsequential. Everything that is being proposed and is being enacted pursuant to executive order, voted into law, or cabinet positions approved, will have enormous effects on millions of Americans.
Newspapers, of minimum circulation, and those of a vast readership, must provide information constantly on the front page or as a major headline. The information must be factual and include statistics that are reliable or credible scenarios presented by trusted researchers.
No doubt the distrust infused in the public at large during the last decade by virtue of hyper distorted television, radio and internet sources, will be a difficult barrier to overcome. But, adhering to provable information without editorializing, will ultimately be believed by large numbers of viewers and readers.
At this juncture the three branches of government have been unable or unwilling to provide the protections that are being consistently challenged, or eroded, by those who should be faithful to the principle of “justice for all,” and are enabling a dismantlement of our evolving democratic system. Local newspapers must endeavor to alert and inform the public, regaining its trust and thereby become a reliable truth sentinel.
Betty Ussach, Dartmouth
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