Allen Woods: Diversity of opinion requires willingness to write

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Published: 02-12-2024 5:46 PM

Modified: 02-12-2024 7:07 PM


For years, and more often recently, I have read complaints about the Recorder’s columnists and their politics. Most have suggested that there are too few conservative viewpoints represented and that most regular writers come from one particular demographic.

As a regular contributor and member of that category (a left-leaning old white man), I heartily agree. I would love to see more diverse opinions and writers. However, people should understand that all columns are volunteer efforts. I believe the Recorder will print nearly anything submitted if it meets certain minimum standards. The Recorder itself does not solicit, support, or compensate columnists, other than to print what they write. People write columns because they believe they have something to say, they want to make a point, and/or persuade others of their views.

So, if people want different points of view or different writers, they need to write it themselves or persuade others to do it. The Recorder currently isn’t in the business of choosing or paying editorial page writers. (BTW: This letter was not solicited, supported, or compensated by the Recorder either, other than possibly publishing it.)

Allen Woods

Greenfield

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