Reaction from this story: 'Proud Indigenous woman' furious about 'segregation' of students at BC elementary school

To illustrate the reaction we get from stories I am going to share this one as an example of many that we do. We are trying our best to be pluralist. The original story is here. You will need to read the story for proper context: https://www.kelownanow.com/watercooler/news/news/Provincial/Proud_Indigenous_woman_furious_about_segregation_of_students_at_BC_elementary_school/

The email from a concerned reader along with our response and then a response from the reader follows:

?I write to you with grave concern regarding the recent publication titled “Proud indigenous woman’ furious about “segregation” of students at B.C. elementary school” on your platform. This article is not only misleading but also deeply divisive, perpetuating harmful narratives and failing to uphold the fundamental principles of responsible journalism.?

?The article’s assertion of “segregation” and “bullying” at Brent Kennedy Elementary School is a gross misrepresentation of the truth. The initiative in question, the Kootenay Lake Aboriginal Education Equity Scan, was a well-intentioned effort to promote inclusivity and understanding of Indigenous experiences. Characterizing this as segregation is not only factually incorrect but also undermines the importance of initiatives aimed at addressing systemic inequities.

?Furthermore, the article’s framing of the provision of pizza during the survey as preferential treatment is disingenuous and lacks context. Equity does not equate to reverse racism; it is about recognizing and addressing historical and systemic injustices. The concept of reverse racism is a fallacy that detracts from meaningful discussions about equity and perpetuates harmful narratives of victimization.

?Equity is not about giving one group preferential treatment over another; it is about ensuring that everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources. In a diverse society, promoting equity is essential for fostering inclusivity and dismantling barriers to success. By trivializing the importance of equity, the article undermines efforts to create a more just and equitable society for all.

?Moreover, the article’s portrayal of Emily Duggan’s actions lacks critical analysis and context. Duggan’s past involvement in contentious issues, coupled with her controversial views, should have been thoroughly examined to provide readers with a comprehensive understanding of her motivations. By omitting this crucial information, the article perpetuates a biased narrative that serves to further inflame tensions rather than foster constructive dialogue.

?In light of these serious concerns, I urge you to take immediate action to retract the article and issue a public apology for any harm caused. Furthermore, I implore you to uphold the highest standards of journalistic integrity by ensuring that future reporting is grounded in accuracy, fairness, and a commitment to promoting inclusivity and equity.

?The dissemination of accurate and responsible journalism is essential for fostering informed public discourse and building a more equitable society. I trust that you will heed this call for accountability and take the necessary steps to rectify this egregious lapse in journalistic ethics.?

Managing editor response: Thank you for your email.?

It appears you've perhaps misunderstood the nature of the article in question. It is not an editorial expressing?our platform's opinion, but a news story, and features the perspectives of two sides in a dispute that has caused considerable concern in the community, and BC in general. I can tell you firsthand that it is not inaccurate, because I interviewed Emily Duggan myself and have the transcripts from our conversation in front of me. I also still have the statement from the school district's superintendent, which I put into the piece verbatim. The two women are not, as you'll be aware, in agreement with one another. We've therefore striven to allow both disputants to be heard in as disinterested a way as possible – in the interests, as you say yourself, of fostering public discourse.

The story also conforms to our journalistic ethics. Most of your complaint appears to me to be simply your own opinion dressed up as objective truth, including what you consider to be "journalistic integrity" and "responsible journalism." There is no stone tablet conveniently located in some museum explaining for all time what those terms actually mean. They are entirely subjective, and so invoking them in a matter such as this one strikes me, I'm afraid to say,?as quite obviously otiose.

It's evident that you don't agree with with Ms. Duggan, on this point or any other, but that is not sufficient justification for us to retract or change an article in which she – an Indigenous woman, a mother of a child at the school in question and a prominent figure in the area – has put forward her perspective. That isn't how news works, generally speaking.

If you'd like to submit a letter to the editor about this matter, we can publish it in our Your Voice section. The rules are: argue your point in good faith, be as polite as possible and don't break any laws on, e.g., incitement and defamation.?

Reader response to response: Thank you for your response and clarification. I appreciate your dedication to presenting both sides of the dispute in your news story.

?While I understand that news stories aim to provide a balanced perspective, it’s crucial to recognize the potential consequences of framing contentious issues in a way that perpetuates harmful stereotypes or discrimination. Highlighting discrimination for the sake of clicks or sensationalism can further exacerbate tensions and contribute to divisions within our communities.?

I have left out the part where the response makes allegations towards Emily.