Editors’ apology for recent opinion articles

An open apology to the Flagler College community:

On behalf of the Flagler College Gargoyle, we want to apologize for two articles published in the opinion section, “Ferguson Decision sparks emotional response, contrary to facts” and “Gender neutral shouldn’t be the ‘new normal.’” Both opinion articles were published without the proper editorial oversight and do not represent the Gargoyle’s opinion or stance. We regret that the articles were published and recognize that there was a breakdown in the editorial process.

Both of the articles in question have since been taken down, due to factual errors and discrimination against both the African-American and LGBTQ+ communities. Upon further review, the Gargoyle staff has decided to not republish either article.

The Gargoyle, as a student publication, strives to give students of all political ideologies, backgrounds and viewpoints a voice, but does not seek to be an outlet for speech that puts down or discriminates against a group within the community.

On this occasion, the editorial process failed and, for that, we sincerely apologize. Although we cannot change the harm that the articles created, we want to make sure that similar articles are not published in the future. We will be meeting with the Gargoyle’s advisory board in order to make sure that the correct procedures are in place, and find solutions to the concerns that many students, their parents and Flagler College alumni have expressed.

The Gargoyle wants to represent all views to the best of its ability, while maintaining a safe and respectful environment for all students. Our mission going forward is to prevent similar incidents from happening and continue to act as an outlet for all viewpoints, as long as they are factual and respectful of both our readership and the community.

Alexa Epitropoulos and Heather Seidel, co-editors of the Flagler College Gargoyle