HATE SPEECH: Press should apologize

To Mike Patrick,

I am writing to you out of great concern for the credibility and professionalism of the Coeur d’Alene Press and ultimately you, as Chief Managing Editor, regarding the hate speech and misinformation that you or your team published on May 31, “Crime: Look at the Stats,” submitted by Roger Hawkes.

This opinion piece depicts terminology of “Black on Black crime” which is an alternative-narrative designed by white America to perpetuate a negative and prejudiced view of African Americans. Allowing dangerous racism like this to be broadcasted only serves to embolden those whose views already align with this false and hateful narrative.

While the newspaper claims that the opinion section of The Press does not reflect the direct views of the newspaper, I request that you take responsibility for failing to proofread published content for false information, as well as failing to uphold the ethical standards expected of you by this community.

It would be very beneficial to our town if you were to issue a formal apology to the public for publishing hateful, misinformation in addition to clarifying your intention and purpose as a responsible media source in Coeur d’Alene.

KATHERINE NICHOLS

Coeur d’Alene