On Tuesday, we published a simple community calendar post about a Democratic Party meeting happening in October. More than half of the comments were in essence online bullying and put simply, it’s not gonna happen … not on my watch.

At The Lynchburg Times, we exist to shine a light on the stories that matter in Moore County. We work hard to keep our news accessible and our community connected. That means encouraging conversation, even when it involves disagreement. Healthy debate is part of democracy.

But there’s a difference between disagreement and disrespect. Recently, we’ve seen a rise in comments that cross the line – from name-calling to snide remarks that add nothing to the conversation. We want to be clear: The Lynchburg Times is not a free-for-all. Commenting on our platforms is a privilege, not a right.

Some will cry “First Amendment” when their comments are removed. Let’s be clear: the First Amendment protects citizens from government censorship. It does not guarantee the right to say whatever you want on a privately owned platform. Just as you wouldn’t be allowed to walk into someone’s living room or a local business and shout insults without being asked to leave, the same principle applies here. The Lynchburg Times is our space, and we reserve the right to moderate it so that conversation remains respectful and constructive.

We welcome thoughtful dialogue. We will not host hate, harassment, or cheap shots meant to tear down rather than build up. Comments that don’t meet that standard will be removed, and repeat offenders will be permanently banned. That’s not censorship –it’s basic community care.

Our goal is simple: to provide news and create a space where our readers feel safe engaging with it. If you want to debate ideas, share perspectives, or even challenge us respectfully, we welcome you. If you want to troll, mock, or spew negativity, there are plenty of other corners of the internet for that. Just not here.

Thank you for supporting local journalism. Together, we can keep this space informed, respectful, and uniquely Lynchburg.

—Tabitha Evans Moore
Editor & Publisher, The Lynchburg Times