Northeast News
April 22, 2015

Dear Editor,

As a journalist, you are aware of the power of public narrative and the power journalists have in shaping it through their writings. This is why it is disappointing you feel the need to once again use sensationalized language in your Buzz column, (published in the April 8 edition), as you know it preys on people’s emotions instead of their intelligence and builds off of stereotypes instead of facts to shape public opinion.

Portraying yourself as someone who needs this strategy to persuade your audience is not only disappointing, but lowers your credibility as a reliable reporter in our eyes. Regarding the recent editorial: Yes, some teens damaged property on the Plaza. Accountability for their actions is necessary and is happening. However, despite the fact that the majority of teens present were doing nothing unlawful, you cast them as a “violent flash mob” that “invaded” the Plaza. This exaggerated use of “mob” among other words is its own act of violence against the character of the peaceful majority. Everyone needs to feel safe and welcome on the Plaza, everyone. Unfortunately, the Plaza has a long history of profiling and not welcoming certain groups of people (another form of violence), based on the actions of a few that are then exaggerated and cast as the actions of the majority, often by media outlets.

Our own police chief shared his unfortunate experience of this as a young adult on the Plaza. Our city needs more racial healing, not more harmful stereotyping by media. Let’s be a part of a helpful solution.

Sincerely,

Amy and Gary Malek

NE Residents