Explore Chicago journalism's past at Newberry Library
The Sun-Times asked readers last week "What kind of museum is missing from Chicago?" Patrick Leary's excellent answer was, "A Museum of Journalism." I wanted to write in and highlight the wealth of journalism-related material at the Newberry Library, much of which I've been privileged to work with in my role as an archivist there.
Because Patrick's response specifically mentioned "The Front Page," "His Girl Friday" and the City News Bureau, I'll note that our collection includes Ben Hecht's papers, as well as the records of the City News Bureau. And those resources are just the beginning; we're home to the papers of a great many Chicago journalists and publications.
Come get a free reader’s card and explore the collection!
Ben Weinstein, Ravenswood
Young voters matter
Reader Sherry Szilage Stoffel suggested that while it is OK for 18-year-olds to run Cook County's early voting program, they shouldn't be allowed to actually vote. She backs her argument by citing students' brain growth, too little education and opinionated social science teachers. Szilage Stoffel also mentioned karma, stating students would have to live with the consequences of their decisions. I have issues with her reasoning.
This country belongs to young adults. They should be actively participating in the voting process, hopefully getting excited by their experiences and continuing to vote (and advocating for their candidates) throughout their lives. The percentage of adults who vote now is so low. We need to instill this civic responsibility and pride into the younger generation as early as possible. Yes, there is evidence the brain doesn't fully develop until the age of 24 or 25. So, when do you propose they start voting? At 30? That's ridiculous. If they can be drafted or enlist, and we can put a gun in their hand at 18, I think they are responsible enough to vote for a candidate of their choosing.
Having too little education and opinionated teachers? I would like to see adults like Szilage Stoffel who have the education and experience to sit in a room with these students. By 18, most of these students have a high school education and have been exposed to teachers who are dedicated to giving them a proper, impartial education. How do I know? I was a high school teacher for 35 years. We make it our mission to give all sides and not our opinion, so that they can form their own. We pride ourselves on that. That is how you teach teenagers.
Lastly, Szilage Stoffel mentioned the consequences of students' choices. Have you seen our country lately?
Chris Joyce, La Grange Park
Put Trump brand on Iran war
Since Donald Trump likes to plaster his name on everything, isn't it time to name it the Trump War?
Eileen Carney, Palos Heights
Say ‘yes’ to ‘No Kings’
The third "No Kings" protest is Saturday. It promises to be the largest day of protest in U.S. history. Join one of the many peaceful protests throughout the Chicago area to remind Donald Trump and his enablers that in a democracy, real power belongs to the people, not a wannabe king who is intent on concentrating power and taking away our rights.
John Regan, Lemont