Cardinal Bernardin
The U.S. Constitution, that model of justice, apparently does not apply when sex is involved. Freedom of speech takes precedence over “innocent until proven guilty,” and the accusation becomes the verdict: guilty until proven innocent. Anyone who holds a grudge, or wants fame, has only to claim sexual victimization to become an instant media star. Whether or not the charge is true, the life of the accused will never be the same.
The media do not wait for due process of the law, nor does the public’s appetite for sensational sex. Whether or not the accusations have merit, regardless of truth, the accused person’s life will never be the same.
May God protect all who suffer from injustice, especially Cardinal Joseph Bernardin of Chicago (Nov. 16). And may we find a way to constitutionally create a balance between freedom of the press and that precious American concept, the presumption of innocence.
NORMA HENRY LeDOUX
Ontario
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