Letter to the Editor: Right to principle shouldn’t be overruled

Dear Editor:

I am writing in regards to an offensive ad published in the Monday, Jan. 30 Statesman, consisting of a graphic picture and the information of the advertiser. The same advertiser has previously placed somewhat questionable ads in the paper, but I feel this particular one is inappropriate and unacceptable for a school paper. While this ad probably did not offend all of your readers, I was disappointed to see such an ad in a reputable paper. My wife talked to a member of your staff, who said that although there have been other complaints, nothing was going to be done because “It’s only a cartoon, and they are paying advertisers.”

Although the picture was a drawing and not an actual photograph, it is lifelike and provocative. I realize that the paper is supported financially by advertisers, but the content of such ads is the responsibility of the paper, and specifically of the Editor (hence the name).

There are undoubtedly those who will see me as narrow minded and intolerant. They have a right to their views and beliefs. To them I say, “What about my views and beliefs?” Why must I tolerate their views while they discredit mine? I believe in the right of free speech, etc. I believe people have the right to advertise and/or patronize whatever they wish, including this ad and its advertiser. I have the right to not be exposed to things I don’t want to see, and I will exercise that right by no longer reading the Statesman while that ad is running. I believe that others have the right to individuality and diversity. So do I, and I choose to be diverse by not agreeing with or supporting such ads.

The Statesman should not support voyeurism’s misuse of the rights to “diversity” and “tolerance” in order to overrule my rights to principle.

Brian Richins