I’ve heard what “they” say about us.
We’re extreme liberals. Unsaved and anti-religion. LGBTQ+ panderers. DEI bandwagoners. Rulebreakers and catty agitators.
Because we are a women-led organization, we’re labeled as bitchy and bossy and not described as purpose-charged, ambitious leaders. Because we intentionally strive to uphold democracy and keep our ethical journalistic foot on the necks of the white, male and power-hungry in our Mississippi, we hate all conservatives and Republicans and even Democratic candidates during elections. Clearly everything we do in opposition to the patriarchal-power players is just another move from our award-winning, right-wing hating playbook. (Yes, I’m being sarcastic.)
I hear and read the hearsay, name-calling and allegations. But I’m not moved or offended because as an editor and journalist, it’s my job and passion to promote freedom of thought, speech and expression. I support everyone’s right to say what they really think and am a strong believer in the importance of people’s stories, even the scary and “unpopular” ones. It’s my job to present the facts as they are to the public, and it’s my passion to link the people who build up our communities with whatever tools, resources and relationships journalistic integrity can provide. It’s my job and calling to listen intently first, ask the hard and right questions, think and organize, and then write, edit and report.
Conflicts Are Meant To Be Resolved
When dealing with humans in any capacity, you open yourself to conflict. But stirring up conflict—call it “good trouble”—is how we challenge and grow one another. You being different from me—having a completely different perspective because you came from a different family, educational background, religion, race, nationality, gender, sexuality, immigration history, experienced various traumas and triumphs—is why it’s profoundly important for us to talk to each other. Conflict doesn’t have to be violent, hateful or infringe on anyone’s freedom. Conflict is meant to be resolved. The bigger the divide between our experiences and perspectives, the more space and time we must give one another to grow and change at our own pace.
“When dealing with humans in any capacity, you open yourself