To the Editor,
Like many neighbors, I was dismayed to learn that Satya Nelms and Rachel Pastan had resigned from The Swarthmorean. Both are talented and dedicated neighbors who have enlightened us with their diligent reporting and incisive writing at the publication that has supported the community for generations. I am sad to see them go.
As I was not privy to any of the conversations between the publishers and editors that brought us to this point, I can only rely on what has been printed.
Satya’s blog post on the matter was devastating in its accusations. The publisher’s response, at the very least, indicates that what they intended to say was not the complete message that was received.
And so, what do we as readers do?
Do I believe Satya? Absolutely. She heard what she heard, and I support her right to walk away from an environment where she does not feel her authentic voice can be heard.
Do I respect Rachel’s choice? Of course!
Do I recognize that the editors have been striving to provide a service to the community that leads to inclusivity? Yes again.
Did anyone ever say that change would be easy or straightforward? No. From what I can see, the publishers of The Swarthmorean are committed to the work of making this publication relevant in 2021 to the issues that face us — including the racial injustice that is omnipresent in our own community. If their statement is to be believed, there will be more challenging articles to come. And I welcome them.
For those readers who do not want to engage in this conversation, I am sad to see you go. I hope you will consider staying to help make Swarthmore, our region, and The Swarthmorean better.
Sincerely,
Colleen Guiney
Swarthmore
