Columnist Regrets Suggesting Journalist Join Channel 14
Translated & summarized from Maariv by baba
Columnist Miki Levin regrets suggesting journalist Ayelet Hasson join Channel 14, citing the public dispute between Hasson and the Public Broadcasting Corporation (Kan). Levin believes Kan's response to Hasson was disproportionate and that diverse viewpoints belong in public broadcasting. She acknowledged Hasson's importance but disagreed with her positions, advocating for debate. Hasson's departure from Kan was called brave, with her future role in media now a key question.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Columnist Miki Levin regrets suggesting journalist Ayelet Hasson join Channel 14.
- Levin believes the Public Broadcasting Corporation's (Kan) response to Hasson was disproportionate.
- She stated that diverse viewpoints, including right-wing ones, belong in public broadcasting.
- Levin disagreed with Hasson's positions but advocated for her to debate on a shared platform.
- Hasson's decision to leave Kan was described as brave.
- Levin questioned where Hasson will next apply her journalistic influence.
Columnist Miki Levin has expressed regret over her earlier suggestion that journalist Ayelet Hasson join Channel 14, stating she now believes it was a mistake. Levin's change of heart comes after observing the public dispute between Hasson and the Public Broadcasting Corporation (Kan). She feels that a large public body like Kan should handle internal conflicts with more restraint, rather than engaging in a public war of statements, especially when it appears to be a powerful organization against a single employee, even a well-known one with a loyal following.
Levin speculated that the conflict might have been inevitable, with the recent events merely providing the catalyst. She noted that it's sad to see a veteran journalist and a major institution reach a point where neither side can back down. Levin also rejected the notion that Kan is an institution that excludes right-wing viewpoints, asserting that it includes diverse voices and journalists with varying perspectives.
While acknowledging that Hasson represents a significant segment of the public whose voice is important and belongs in public broadcasting, Levin stated she disagrees with most of Hasson's positions and is sometimes angered by her perceived alignment with government talking points. Nevertheless, Levin believes Hasson should engage in debates on a shared platform, facing tough questions and differing opinions, which she sees as a sign of media that respects its viewers.
Levin emphasized the responsibility of words, particularly for a people with a history of persecution and generalizations. She argued that while a journalist can be sharp and provocative, they must remember the individuals behind group labels. Levin also countered the portrayal of Hasson as refusing any apology, suggesting that while her apology could be criticized or questioned, it differs from a power struggle. She concluded that Hasson's decision to leave Kan is brave, and her next move will be interesting to watch, as her appeal and presence are valuable assets for any channel.
