University of Virginia Library

Printing 'Secrets'

A belated note to
congratulate you on your
clear-headed and professional
decision to publish
prematurely the report of the
Committee on the Future of
the University.

Both journalistic and legal
precedents establish the right
and the duty of the mass media
to publish news of compelling
interest to its readers—despite
its being labeled "secrets" by
those in power—as long as no
community interest would be
clearly and substantially
damaged by such disclosure.

Despite the voices of closure
both on your staff and in the
administration, you have acted
in the best traditions of
journalism in the open and
liberal society.

Those of us who love the
journalistic craft and value its
worth are very proud of you.