can she say that?....yes she can

"many people on college campuses...don't understand the role of the student press of the basic tenets of press freedom" pg. 8, SNSG

This comment is very true. Many do not understand the true meaning of freedom of the press. I will atempt to give an explanation beased on what I learned in newswriting last fall:

Yes, we are allowed to say what we want, within certain parameters. You have to be aware of any potential harm that your writing may cause. Above all, be aware of your audience before you begin writing. Think about who might possibly be offended by your content. There could possibly be a backlash. Is it worth it?

As I recall, last spring Andrea Perkins wrote an article about a reception Seton Hill had for accepted students. She was perturbed that the student were fed all kinds of delicacies like steak and seafood. Those of us who attend Seton Hill know very well that our food is very arely of the gourmet quality (see, I'm saying the same thing Andre did, just a little more conservatively). I believe she felt (don't quote me on this) that the school was somehow lying to the accepted students by painting a false picture. The article was printed and there was ultimately a backlash.

But was it worth is? I don't believe Andrea apologized. She stuck to her guns. Many students did agree with her, including myself. Andrea felt that something has to be said, and she was prepared for the consequences.

My point is that Andrea had every right to say what she said. And the people who responded to her article had every right to do so as well. Freedom of the press gives you freedom to say what you feel needs to be said, but it does not protect you from the consequences.