Media Watch: Reporter Fired for Expressing Views on SSM

MaineToday executives need to explain themselves. Read More...

AMG’s Media Watch
Reporter fired for expressing views on SSM
Tue, 12/08/2009 - 11:17pm

The Morning Sentinel's firing of veteran reporter Larry Grard for sending an impetuous email was a horrible error by the relatively-new management of the MaineToday Newspapers. It was not only unfair but leaves the newspaper chain open to charges of vindictiveness or, worse, failure to honor the spirit of its contract with its employees.

Most editors would prefer that their reporters keep their political opinions to themselves rather than sharing them with readers, especially readers with contrary viewpoints. But reporters are human, after all, and can make poor judgments as Grard did in this case.

When he saw the press release from the Human Rights people, Grard should have ignored it. After all his side won and their side lost, so his reaction -- while perhaps understandable -- was, from a practical standpoint, unnecessary.
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But so was the reaction of MaineToday management when the easily-offended Human Rights operative cried foul. The company promptly administered capital punishment to a loyal employee of 18 years when a slap on the wrist was more in order. Grard, after all was speaking for himself. Not wise, perhaps, but surely not a fireable offense.

If Diamon's blog is right, and it usually is, the MaineToday executives responsible for this tawdry episode are hiding under their desks. They need to explain themselves. This is a most inauspicious way for new managers to introduce themselves to Maine.

This whole event is a travesty and may well backfire. Mainers may have differing political views, but they tend to unite against bullies of any stripe.

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