Freedom of Speech
by
Patricia Harman, Editor-In-Chief, Cleaning and Restoration Magazine
July 30, 2007
Freedom of Speech
By Patricia L. Harman
The U.S. recently celebrated its 231st year of independence from England and the hard-won freedoms that accompanied that bold decision. One of those guaranteed by the First Amendment is the freedom of speech.
As a journalist, I hold this particular right in high regard, but I have little respect for those who choose to use it to pass on rumors, half-truths and innuendos. Our industry has a tremendous gossip mill and I’ve learned over the years that much of the gossip is inaccurate or certainly does not include all of the facts.
What I despise even more are those who throw out these little “facts” and then hide behind the anonymity of a pen-name because they know their information isn’t credible and they lack the “cojones” to use their real identity. Technology has enabled us to spread rumors as quickly as the wildfires in California. With the click of a button, information can be sent around the globe.
I’m all for the freedom of speech, but I think it is incumbent on each of us to use it wisely and not abuse the privilege. As for rumors, I’ve always found that asking a few pointed questions is usually the best way to get to the bottom of them.
Patricia L. Harman
Editor-in-Chief
Cleaning & Restoration Magazine
P.S. By the way, quite a few RIA members will be exercising their freedom of speech at the RIA Fall Conference Series in Orange County, CA this October. The next round of Donnybrooks will feature arguments and questions on pricing and scoping drying services, as well as the final round of discussions for the drying debate.
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About this Author:
I've been the editor of C&R for 11 years and I find the cleaning and restoration industry absolutely fascinating (and the people I meet aren't bad either!). It's always changing and I never get tired of learning new things. As the director of communications for RIA, I'm involved in many of our new initiatives, helping to shape our messages and keeping our constituents abreast of major changes.
I've also worked as the editor of a home and garden magazine, served as the editor of two real estate newspapers, and written for the building, transporation and legal industries. |
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