The local daily in Roanoke has finally made a change in its editorial policy that was a long-time coming: people will be responsible for what they say in editorial responses.
Editor Joe Stinnett wrote this in today's edition:
"Now, a heads-up to our frequent online commenters on the blogs and
stories: We'll be requiring you to use your real name when commenting,
and we'll use Facebook for all comments. The comments can appear on
your Facebook wall, or not, as you desire. This is a philosophical
change, reflecting my belief that if you say something in public, you
ought not to be anonymous. This change is already causing controversy
with our online community at roanoke.com, and we welcome your
non-anonymous comments pro and con on this change."
It only makes sense. If you want to say something in a public forum, you should not be anonymous. Anonynimity has led to drive-by slander and lible and it, at its most basic, a coward's outlet. No cowards allowed in public discourse.
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