By SARAH CLARK
News Editor
As preserving democracy becomes increasingly critical for journalists in an era where media messages are misconstrued, it is difficult for both professionals and those who consume news to understand where the truth comes to light. However, there is a bigger issue all Americans face, and that is finding optimism.
People filled the SEFCU Arena at the State University of Albany on Sept. 6 to hear Dan Rather, an award-winning journalist and author, speak about his new book, “What Unites Us: Reflections On Patriotism.” The event was sponsored by the University at Albany Speaker Series, which brings authors and public figures to speak to students and the community. Paul Grondahl, Director of the New York State Writers Institute at the University of Albany, introduced Rather and interviewed him during the hour long event.
“We all know this is a perilous time for our country,” said Rather. He compared previous times where the U.S. faced troubling events in history, such as the Civil War or 9/11, and how we are currently seeing more pressing events happen. “We have our differences, but our agreement overwhelmingly as a people, as a nation, on certain core values, is a far greater strength to overcome these divisions that we have on ourselves.”
In 1972, news outlets began to investigate the Nixon Administration and the abuse of power after it was suspected U.S. citizens were having their telephones wiretapped, which allows other parties to hear conversations between callers. President Richard Nixon then covered up the evidence and was re-elected for a second term, however, he resigned in 1974 after evidence proved Nixon was guilty.
When Grondahl asked Rather if he believed the Nixon and Trump administrations are similar, Rather addressed how although there are similarities, the differences also need to be highlighted. The biggest difference Rather brought attention to was how the Watergate scandal was a domestic threat, whereas the the 2016 election involved foreign interference. “I do think there are some risks with overdrawing similarities,” said Rather.
As Rather spoke about the freedom of the press, he included how most presidents in U.S. history have had issues with reporters, but no president has condemned an entire group in society— even President Richard Nixon, who faced impeachment for a “widespread criminal conspiracy.”
“The phrase ‘Enemy of the people,’ for those of us who have lived a mile, it has an erie ring,” said Rather. A free press that is independent of any ruling power, whether it be a town supervisor or the president of the country, is vital to a democracy, as Rather said during the discussion. “It’s the echo of every dictator… anywhere around the world that wanted to control his or her people,” said Rather.
One question asked by a UAlbany student was regarding climate change and how to create a conversation about the issue. He expressed disappointment in the candidates for the upcoming election, as there as been a lack of discussion around the topic, according to Rather.
“We are in a race against time,” said Rather. He suggested two ways to create a conversation around climate change. First, people need to speak about it in normal conversations, as they must acknowledge the issue. Second, change needs to start by becoming active with preserving what still exists.
“He is a hero to myself and many other journalists,” said Grondahl. He was excited to interview Rather, and commented on the genuine nature of his character—several times throughout the discussion Rather became emotional while speaking. “He has covered every major news event for 60 years, so it was a great treat for me to be able to do that.”
Throughout the night, members of the audience were engaged and intrigued by the ideas that Rather had to offer, as several times heavy applause carried through the arena after he gave thought-out answers. Gail Meehan, a Guilderland resident and SUNY Albany graduate, grew up following Rather and his coverage on stories like Watergate and the Vietnam war.
“It was amazing to see how youthful [he is],” said Meehan. “He’s very… Jack said it, how gracious, intelligent, and really deep he is.”
The resilience that is demonstrated by Rather’s career as a journalist was highlighted at the SEFCU Arena, as he has covered noteworthy events in American history. As he captivated the audience with anecdotes, he sent a message to attendees to preserve democracy with education and optimism. “I think optimism is more justified than anything,” said Rather.
