I realize that this letter is not in accord with your editorial stance or with most current opinions concerning refusal to be vaccinated against COVID-19. I am writing only because I think there is too much anger and ridicule in what should be a respectful acknowledgment of concerns, both for and against the use of vaccines.
To accuse people who resist the vaccine of being crazy, stupid or anti-social is not productive. Probably some are in one of these categories. But I also know of concerned and intelligent people on both sides of this issue whose judgment I respect. Some are sure the vaccine is beneficial; some question vaccines that are technically experimental and produced by pharmaceutical companies better known for their cupidity than their probity. It’s normal to cite experts, but “experts” have been known to be either right or wrong.
I make no recommendation here, only a plea to be less accusatory and more respectful of diverse conclusions.
Patricia Spicer
Eugene
A Note From the Publisher
Dear Readers,
The last two years have been some of the hardest in Eugene Weekly’s 43 years. There were moments when keeping the paper alive felt uncertain. And yet, here we are — still publishing, still investigating, still showing up every week.
That’s because of you!
Not just because of financial support (though that matters enormously), but because of the emails, notes, conversations, encouragement and ideas you shared along the way. You reminded us why this paper exists and who it’s for.
Listening to readers has always been at the heart of Eugene Weekly. This year, that meant launching our popular weekly Activist Alert column, after many of you told us there was no single, reliable place to find information about rallies, meetings and ways to get involved. You asked. We responded.
We’ve also continued to deepen the coverage that sets Eugene Weekly apart, including our in-depth reporting on local real estate development through Bricks & Mortar — digging into what’s being built, who’s behind it and how those decisions shape our community.
And, of course, we’ve continued to bring you the stories and features many of you depend on: investigations and local government reporting, arts and culture coverage, sudoku and crossword puzzles, Savage Love, and our extensive community events calendar. We feature award-winning stories by University of Oregon student reporters getting real world journalism experience. All free. In print and online.
None of this happens by accident. It happens because readers step up and say: this matters.
As we head into a new year, please consider supporting Eugene Weekly if you’re able. Every dollar helps keep us digging, questioning, celebrating — and yes, occasionally annoying exactly the right people. We consider that a public service.
Thank you for standing with us!
Publisher
Eugene Weekly
P.S. If you’d like to talk about supporting EW, I’d love to hear from you!
jody@eugeneweekly.com
(541) 484-0519
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