As a newspaper editor, I (along with the editorial board) concern myself with balancing the need, the right, of our people to express themselves through their opinions and comments to the news of the day and protecting the public from inappropriate expressions of hate.

For many years among the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, being gay, lesbian or transgender was something that was either hidden or something that wasn’t discussed. There was a stigma attached to it, and many just don’t want to discuss it. One organization on the Boundary hopes to change that.

While covering the Junior Miss Cherokee pageant during the 106th Cherokee Indian Fair, I witnessed a young lady display exemplary bravery and conquer a fear millions like her, including myself, have – public speaking due to stuttering.