‘Alarming’ letter misstated the facts

November 13, 2007 - 5:56 PM

Regarding Dave Pietz’s alarming letter regarding SB 777 ( “Legislature sets out to destroy families,” Nov. 5):

Letters to the editor can be a useful tool for alerting and educating the reading public. I object to ones that are factually inaccurate or obviously inflammatory.

From what’s in the text, SB 777 does nothing like what Pietz claimed: (it) “has effectively banned from California schools mom, dad, husband and wife.” As far as “a law ordering public schools to allow boys to use girls’ restrooms and locker rooms, and vice versa, if they choose” - which bill number was that in?

As written, Pietz’s letter misleads readers who don’t have or take the time to check the accuracy of the assertions made. It’s like suddenly yelling “FIRE” in a crowded theater when there isn’t one, causing chaos and injury or death.

Inflammatory and inaccurate representations by anyone degrades the value of free speech and causes a lack of trust.

Ted Langdell

Marysville