OPINIONS: Let’s hear them

In the Feb. 11 Press Opinion page, a letter writer suggested that The Press would be “doing your readers a service” by fact checking the assertions of opinion letters submitted to the paper. Let’s put aside the fact that the letters are submitted to, and published on, the “Opinion” page.

Whom does this letter-writer think should be doing this fact-checking?

In a recent and famous case, John Stossel, a well-known investigative journalist, was “fact-checked” by Facebook on a video he posted regarding climate change. Facebook posted a warning on the video, calling it “Lacking Context.” They similarly flagged another of his posted videos, the result of which was loss of revenue to Stossel by sponsors.

Stossel sued Facebook, who filed a response that their fact-checks were actually “opinions,” and therefore protected free-speech. What? The result: “Free-speech” only applies to those whom the masterminds feel are worthy of free-speech. Otherwise, if they don’t agree with your opinion, then your speech is censored.”

Is this truly what the letter writer wants? Does she truly believe that she would be better served having a select few decide what we should hear and see?

Are we that fragile? Are we really harmed by seeing or hearing opinions that we don’t agree with? Should we abandon all efforts to think critically for ourselves? Free speech is precious in our country. Our forefathers were aware of the dangers of speech censorship, which is why freedom of speech is embodied in our Constitution.

These are not isolated incidents. Many people have been banned from Facebook, YouTube and Twitter for daring to speak out. This is dangerous to our way of life.

The letter writer’s movement should be soundly and resoundingly defeated.

JOSHUA COHEN

Hayden