Farber comes off as a hypocrite on freedom of expression. The CJC's apparent policy to fire both barrels at any hint of anti-semitism may be effective but also squelches free speech when fire at the least criticism of official Israeli policy. Thus the CJC comes off as hypocritical as well. Zerbesias didn't need to imply Farber was gay - even though Farber put on that t-shirt all by himself. 

As for blogs at official media websites... I am sickened by many of the comments that get posted by some people who think it okay to spout whatever racist, libellous, unfound rumour or outright lies they want in response to posts that deal with gays, minorities, Blacks, abortion, Indigenous peoples, etc.

The Globe and Mail had "semi-moderation" (whatever good that was supposed to accomplish) of some posts or discussions even though you just knew the subject would attract swarms of rednecks and yahoos. So I would think twice about arguing against a mainstream media site that wants to extend basic journalistic responsibility to its online publications (blogs, tweets, etc) as well. That, after all, is what editors are supposed to do but have not done so far with their organizations' online versions.

Not every letter sent to the editor gets printed, or is printed in its entirety. Some are thrown into the trash for all kinds of reasons, not least because they distort the truth, or insult and demean identifiable groups in society.

Reporters know, or should know, that they have some responsibility to their employer even when not "on-duty." It isn't just words but actions by a reporter, or editor, that can damage a news organization. So they should be aware that official blogs fall under the same journalistic guidelines as their print or broadcast versions.