Class of Editors Extraordinaire response:

Please know I feel compelled to share my thoughts in hopes that they can provide some perspective and understanding to this matter.

I am 100% Chinese-american. And to be blunt: As a minority who has more than two decades in journalism, E&P’S response to the criticism regarding your recent list is insulting.

I read the criticism you received on social. Most of it is the same rhetoric from the same types of folks who like to make controversy where there is none. I also know the parameters and the process by which you select your winners. You selected our sales exec, Cyndi Gustafson, as a Sales Superstar in January. You had no idea of Cyndi’s age, race, etc. Exactly how it should be.

If you choose to run these contests and spotlight individuals in our industry, it is important to do so based on the merit of the work and contributions to his or her company — and to the industry as a whole. As a reader of your publication, I want inspiration and ideas I can take with me and employ in my own newsroom. I want to read about innovators, forward-thinkers, doers.

I DO NOT CARE ABOUT THE COLOR OF A NOMINEE’S SKIN.

And frankly, neither should you. That’s called racism. When I read about the winners of your various contents, I do not keep a tally of white vs. non-white; male vs. female; old vs. young, etc. None of that is pertinent to why I spend the time to read your publication.

Furthermore, that you apologized and pledged to

“cast a wider net” is offensive. It’s as if you’re saying that minorities DO need the scales tipped — they DO need special treatment or consideration. Otherwise, we’d never win these awards. If I were nominated for an E&P award, I forever would question that it was given because of the color of my skin and not my contributions to journalism. I cannot speak for all minorities, but for this one: That’s wildly racist.

I find it appalling that this year’s winners were contacted and “given the opportunity” to rescind their nomination. I cannot imagine the thought process that would have led to those phone calls.

Please, please do not take the social media criticisms and pendulum-swing all the way to a reactionary course of action. What’s more, maybe ask for actual minorities for their thoughts on the matter. I think we may surprise you.

I would welcome a chance to talk about this further, if you choose.

Thanks for reading.