Dear Editor:
I am writing this letter to commend you and the Dillon Herald for the progressive change I have noticed in your paper for the last few years.
Having been born and raised in Dillon during the time of segregation, I experienced much discrimination and rejection. Many like me had to leave the area in order to find employment and educational opportunities. However, I am still connected to Dillon because my mother and other family members still live there. I also subscribe to the Dillon Herald and am thankful that your paper has truly come of age in regard to its inclusiveness. There was a time in the not so distant past that I would rarely see an African-American on the front page except for breaking the law through drug dealing, murder or some other malfeasance. Nevertheless, it is now quite routine for me to see Blacks on the front page, who are truly newsworthy for constructive and positive things. I especially enjoy reading the articles that are written by Bishop Michael Goings. They are truly insightful and thought provoking. Thank you for your courage to allow him to present commentary from a minority perspective. When I was growing up in Dillon, that was unthinkable. I truly look forward to reading the Herald as it continues to give me a bird’s-eye view on what’s going on in Dillon. Keep up the good work.
Reader,
Gene Smith
113 Bainbridge Street
Brooklyn, NY 11233