An influx of letters and comments have been directed to La Voz after the publication of a photo and two letters by Al DeGuzman on the front pageof the Oct. 8 issue. He is the student who allegedly planned a bomb attack on De Anza.
These comments have addressed ridicule, respect, sensitivity and professionalism.
Why we published the letters:
The letters from DeGuzman were directed at to the general De Anza public. La Voz felt the material was appropriate and information the De Anza campus community deserved to know. Because the Editorial Board was aware of the controversial subject matter, we decided to print the letters as they were submitted, without any changes or comments.
La Voz provided the letters and pictures so students could see another side of a complex, widespanning story. We provide news and do not distinguish between good and bad news. Our mission is to provide all news, so that readers can form their own opinions.
La Voz letters policy:
We received some letters we wanted to print, but the writers wished to remain anonymous. La Voz only publishes anonymous material if the editorial board deems that the identity of the author may be a threat to his or her personal security by publishing the material. Most letters received that are signed by the author are published in La Voz.
Before publishing letters, La Voz:
*Verifies facts.
*Read thoroughly for possible libelous content (this can be as simple as ridicule toward an identifiable individual).
*Verifies the letter comes from the author.
Strong feelings
The manner in which La Voz presented the DeGuzman letters has been a burning issue among several students and staff members. Some comments addressed the coverage as abominable, shameless and ridiculous. Others addressed the professionalism of La Voz’ s coverage, and the fact that the letters leave us plenty to think about as a community. Others have commended La Voz and addressed the quality of La Voz.
Letters expressed personal feelings about DeGuzman; one person referred to him as a “locked-up, despicable, disgrace-of-a-person.” Another said he’s a “lunatic and psycho.” One person said the letters are “indicative of someone who feels remorse but does not know how to express it.”
Some have said that La Voz “sensationalized” the letters in order to attract readers. On the other side, many say the coverage was handled in a very respectful manner.
La Voz readers form their own opinions on the news that is published.
Frank Michel, Associate Editor of the Houston Chronicle wrote last year, “We consider our job of stirring up the fire-ant mounds of hypocrisy and complacency well done if the ants on all sides of the pasture are hopping mad about it.”
