Mitchell McCoy is a reporter for KARK-TV in Arkansas, and on Monday he shared an email he received from an anonymous viewer who complained about McCoy’s “gayness,” and said he should be taken off the air. The viewer wrote:
“I’ve been holding back for months but I can’t stand your gayness. Our children should not be watching people like you. You are a disgrace to Arkansas and I will be asking your boss to take you off.”
McCoy shared the email on his Twitter account, and he also responded to it in a deeply inspiring way, telling the unnamed viewer:
“I get many emails but this tops it. I’ve dreamt of being a reporter since I was 9 and I won’t stop on your behalf.”
“No matter who you are or what you believe in — dream loudly and don’t let anyone get in your way. The minute you stop is the minute you stop being who you are. It’s not worth it. #DreamOn #StepUpStopBullying.”
KARK news director Austin Kellerman said he fully supports McCoy:
“As public figures, our journalists often receive messages from viewers — some good, some bad. It’s part of our profession. Mitch is a great journalist, and we’re happy to have him on our team.”
And perhaps the hateful viewer needs to know this, too: If you are so offended by Mitchell McCoy because he happens to be gay, then why not change channels? No one is forcing you to watch anything you don’t want to. Also, if you’re this intolerant of those who are different from you, then clearly the problem lies with you, not with Mitchell McCoy. He’s doing his job. But all you’re doing is hating someone for being who they are. There are far too many bigots in this world. Maybe it’s time you examine yourself. Also, next time, try being an adult and signing your name to your vile online screeds.
Take a look at McCoy’s highlight reel and you can immediately tell this young man is good at his job:
Featured Image Via Facebook
