Upon reading culture editor Jan Risher’s recent Houmas House plantation article, I felt compelled to write this letter.
The more than 1,000-word piece sustains a light tone, briefly interrupted by the section “Not a history buff.” I hoped this might launch a nuanced examination of owner Kevin Kelly’s views — instead, the article softens Kelly’s dismissal of history with the playful phrase “He is simply interested in pretty.” That is the length of the article’s criticism.
All articles, no matter their scale, have political ramifications beyond their text. The Advocate and Risher have a moral obligation to complete reporting, especially given the profound topical sensitivity of plantations and Confederate sympathy in Louisiana today…