Thanks to Deadspin’s expose of Chris Surette, I imagine you are receiving a fair amount more traffic than usual these days. After reading the articles myself I can say that the criticism appears warranted.
Quite simply, Mr. Surette’s diatribes are full of moronic drivel. I struggle to find any journalistic merit in his words, even as sophomoric satirical op-eds go. Putting aside content, even more disturbing is that Mr. Surette’s articles show a complete lack of fundamental writing ability, let alone talent, mirrored only (pun intended) by an equal lack of editorial skill.
Please understand, I do not wish for Fairfield to trample on Mr. Surette’s, or The Mirror’s, right to free speech. What should be addressed is your complete disregard for journalistic integrity.
I did see that Mr. Surette issued an apology but it too was as poorly written and edited as his previous articles, rendering it essentially as pointless. Your staff should be as ashamed as Mr. Surette for your disregard.
As a fellow student journalist (Virginia Tech’s Collegiate Times, 1996-1998), I fully recognize that a student paper is a healthy mix of aspiring journalists, those with an interest in writing, and those just seeking a voice and some acceptance. I get it. But just because not everyone on your staff hopes to be the next Woodward or Bernstein is not an excuse to ignore the basic principles of journalism.
You have a great responsibility as a newspaper to uphold these values as honestly as you can. By allowing such tasteless pieces to run in your paper, coupled with the utter lack of journalistic pride, you and your paper offer free speech a great disservice.
Sincerely,
Matt Arden
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