To The Editor:
I want to thank The Valley Reporter for providing a space where disparate views can be shared, debated, and often resolved. Two of my close friends were recently banned for life from posting on a popular local social network. Over the years they posted on a broad variety of topics from public policy on vaccinations to property taxes to possible fossil fuel surcharges. Their comments while passionate were never mean spirited. I’m now wondering how many other voices have been silenced. A “forum” is defined as a place, situation, or group in which people exchange ideas and discuss issues, especially important public issues. Clearly this social network is misnamed. In these days of silo messaging, we need common space where all views can be heard. I’m thankful our newspaper is a bastion of free speech.
Mark Giometti
Warren
