Portland Press Herald apologizes for Ramadan story on 9/11 front page

[Newsjock]

Source: Portland Press Herald

We made a news decision on Friday that offended many readers and we sincerely apologize for it.

Many saw Saturday's front-page story and photo regarding the local observance of the end of Ramadan as offensive, particularly on the day, September 11, when our nation and the world were paying tribute to those who died in the 9/11 terrorist attacks nine years ago.

We have acknowledged that we erred by at least not offering balance to the story and its prominent position on the front page.

Richard L.Connor
Editor and Publisher

Read more: http://www.pressherald.com/note-of-apology.html

Saturday's front page can be seen here (large PDF):
http://webmedia.newseum.org/newseum-multimedia/dfp/pdf11/ME_PPH.pdf

Some of the reaction in reader comments:

It never crossed my mind to be offended by that photo. I am so so sorry that you are apologizing for it. I think it is perfectly reasonable for the paper to print a photo about Eid on 9/11. These people and their faith had nothing whatsoever to do with the horrific attack of nine years ago. Our state needs to be more tolerant, not less. Your apology implies that it is in some way OK to connect everyday Muslims and the attackers. I abhor such thinking.

Not only do I think an apology is unnecessary, but I'm appalled that a reputable newspaper would allow itself to be bullied into offering an apology for covering a religious ceremony. Do not cave in to bigots and xenophobes, no matter how loudly they clamor.

It is ridiculous to feel the need apologize for making a reasoned and sensible decision . The ONLY error was to believe that all of your readers are reasonable people. They are not. There are bigots and fools reading your paper. It is too bad you have decided that you must bow down to their ignorance.

[Ron Green]

1. It's remarkable how the Whiny Babies always seem to control the discourse.

Just look at the Congressional Republicans.