A letter to the editor:
Editor,
Is it just me, or is The Stranger rampant with needlessly scathing articles? I’ve always appreciated The Stranger for Free Will Astrology, Savage Love and the opinions on offbeat, local subjects.
But lately, I’ve been repelled by all of the verbally abusive retorts on benign subjects (ie Ballet) and the -just plain ignorant commentaries, such as the latest, “Street Harassment,” which I found to be a little offensive and somewhat, socially irresponsible. Don’t get me wrong, I think that self-defense is extremely important but I wouldn’t encourage women to engage with anyone who makes a petty, derogatory comment, as it could lead to an actual assault. I mean, a young woman was stabbed a few days ago in LA for not giving up a dollar to a homeless man as she had engaged with him, instead of just walking away.
Ultimately, it makes me wonder, are we trying to cultivate an angry, paranoid and aggressive audience here?
I don’t know, maybe these articles are meant purely as entertainment and amusement and I’m taking them too seriously. But if that’s the case, can’t you guys do a little better? I know the world is a mean and scary place, especially for your writers, but maybe figure out some subjects that are deserving of praise or awe, rather than ridicule and anger.
– Mia