I am appalled at the lack of sensitivity and humanity from some people within our own region. I’ve read a number of comments on Facebook, ABC and various message boards. Are we really mad at Diane Sawyer for reporting on a serious problem, or are we upset that someone is reminding us of images we would rather ignore? Remember, our mandate as journalists is to “give voice to the voiceless,” or as newsman Harry Golden once described his job: “To comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.” The images we saw the other night should make us all uncomfortable. Our region’s rates for cancer, diabetes, obesity and dental problems are higher than the national averages: Facts WYMT and every other local news outlet has reported. It’s no secret Eastern Kentucky has a drug epidemic. But if we are honest, we must admit the facts of the documentary are true and sometimes the truth hurts. I’d like the rest of America to enjoy the beauty of this region, the culture, the friendliness and the people. Yes, I wish ABC would have balanced the segment and focused on some of our successes. They look for the images, the people and the stories which only serve to enhance those beliefs outside our region. I will agree the national media tends to have an agenda which perpetuates the stereotypical views of our region. To be honest, “Hidden America: Children of the Mountains” made me mad as hell! But that anger is not directed so much at Diane Sawyer and ABC, but instead at me, my friends and my associates. My feelings have ranged from sadness and compassion, to embarrassment and anger. Several hours later I watched it again to see if my initial thoughts remained the same. I sat down Saturday morning and watched it in the privacy of my office. Yet, I promised myself I would keep an open mind. So yes, I was concerned the same stereotypical images would once again grace our nation’s airwaves, reinforcing the misconceptions and half-truths associated with one of the most beautiful places on earth, the place I am proud to call home. I remember the excitement when the Harlan Boys Choir was selected to sing at President Bush’s Inauguration only to be followed by the anger and resentment as the national media once again depicted our region as a “hell” hole. I remember Muddy Gut Hollow and WYMT’s live town hall meeting to respond following the hour long assault on our region. Let’s face it we’ve been down this road before. I must admit I watched Diane Sawyer’s “Hidden America: Children of the Mountains” with a great deal of trepidation.

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