BY CLAIRESE CHENNAULT | Reno
This is just a note to urge you to return to the longstanding tradition in print media of requiring citizens who wish to cast their opinions in the public square to have their true, full name and town or neighborhood appended to letters used in your paper.
The purpose of this policy is such that citizens will be required to stand by what they write and be accountable to fellow members of the community. In addition, when writers know that their real name will appear under their letter, most are generally likely to be more careful in striking a civil, polite tone.
I am by no means encouraging a policy of what has become known as political correctness, or other forms of unwarranted censorship. I am just recommending a return to a policy that causes citizens to have to take responsibility for what they write. With the foreknowledge that their real name will be below what they submit, the authors will be more inclined towards greater clarity in writing, and the conduct of debates in your paper’s forum will be politely carried out so that facts and opinions shall be presented and compared in a civil and constructive manner.
Editor’s Note: It is Moonshine Ink’s policy to include full names and towns in Letters to the Editor. Online commenters can use pseudonyms, but are encouraged to use their real names. However, when signing up to comment online, users must include their real name, residence, and valid email address so editors can contact them if needed.
