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Entitled to My Opinion

In a letter to the editor that I wrote, "A Beautiful Dedication Ceremony," published in the Sept. 21 edition of the Guilford Courier, a word was inserted into one of the sentences that wasn't in the original letter I submitted for consideration. I object to the addition of this word because it doesn't accurately reflect my opinion.

The newspaper states its editorial policies at the front of the paper and on the Courier's website, including the admonition that "we reserve the right to edit all submissions." Also included is the statement that "The Guilford Courier encourages letters to the editor that offer a uniquely local perspective on uniquely local issues."

The sentence originally read as follows: "While patriotism since 9/11 has declined and many citizens criticize America as being 'systemically racist,' pride in our great country was on full display at this wonderful event." The editor has inserted the word "seemingly" into the sentence, thereby qualifying the statement and weakening the meaning of the sentence. It's my firm belief that patriotism, love for our country, and pride in America have not only declined today but have gone into the proverbial "witness protection program." The sense of national unity and patriotism in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks has devolved over the years into division and aggressive efforts to demean our founders and the founding principles of this nation. Many citizens are fearful of openly expressing their opinions, patriotism, and support of our country, and therefore, these accusations of "systemic racism" in our schools and society persist, including here in Guilford. These attitudes explain why America is in chaos today.

I am entitled to my opinion and my perspective, but apparently not in the Guilford Courier. I resent someone interjecting a different viewpoint into my letter.

Colleen Roberts

Guilford

Editor’s note: As indicated, the Guilford Courier’s longstanding policy is to edit all submissions for grammar, style, and accuracy. Facts are checked to the best of our ability whenever possible, and opinions presented as fact are edited to be made into clear opinions.