Concern About the Hostility Toward the Free Press
As a Fairhaven resident, I’m deeply concerned by growing hostility toward the free press both nationally and now locally
At the July 28 Selectboard meeting, a public comment crossed a dangerous line, suggesting the Board should influence or reprimand The Fairhaven Neighborhood News. That reveals a fundamental misunderstanding of the First Amendment.
Let’s be clear: the press doesn’t exist to shield public officials from criticism. It exists to inform the people, even when the truth is uncomfortable.
Government interference in media coverage isn’t just inappropriate; it can be unconstitutional and retaliatory. Officials, tread carefully — we’re paying attention.
Massachusetts General Law requires municipalities to post public notices in a newspaper of general circulation. In Fairhaven, that’s The Fairhaven Neighborhood News. This isn’t about preference; it’s about transparency. Where else do we consistently see Fairhaven’s news? Not in the Standard-Times, and certainly not in The Wanderer.
If you don’t like something that was covered, don’t lash out; reflect. Learn. Do better. That’s what public service demands. Criticism isn’t cruelty; it’s accountability.
To Beth David — thank you. Your editorial was strong, clear, and necessary. Great job, and keep going. Fairhaven needs its local press more than ever.
To readers: support The Fairhaven Neighborhood News. Visit advertisers. Donate if you can. It’s the only consistent coverage we’ve got.
Jessica Fidalgo, Fairhaven, A fierce First Amendment advocate
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