LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor: This is the fourth morning I have woken up feeling devastated by the article on the young woman in our community who was raped. I don’t know her personally, I know of her family but we don’t socialize. The brutality of the event is beyond comprehension. But what I think about most is if I am haunted, how much trauma must she feel. Not only from the events but now from all of the details on the front page of our paper. I have read that shame is the overwhelming emotion that victims of rape experience. To have all of the disturbing details for all to read must be like her having to sit in front of the entire town and give her statements. Another horrifying experience. A re-traumatizing experience.

I appreciate your dedication to reporting on the events of our town. I also believe in the importance of discernment. The details of this attack were not necessary for all of us to know, not at the expense of the victim’s vulnerability. It feels like she’s been victimized again by your article. I don’t believe that was your intention but it is the outcome. The town that she was born and raised in should be a safe haven. The attack on her was the first betrayal and your article was the second. Our town has always been a family, looking out for each other the best we can. Our newspaper should reflect that. There are plenty of tabloids to read, I hope you don’t continue to fall into that category.

Barb Schoenebaum Ouray