Montclair Local commenting policy is designed to help create a space for civil conversation and a lively exchange of ideas. Comments stay open for up to five days. Comments are moderated; Montclair Local reserves the right to delete or close comments on any story at any time.

Be yourself

Montclair Local asks that you post under your real name. It makes for a more honest, transparent dialogue where people are accountable for what they say. However, if you have good reasons for staying anonymous, pick a single screen name and stick with it. Montclair Local will ban users found to be posting under multiple names.

Elevate the conversation

Stay on topic. Make sure your comment relates directly to the story. Do not repeat your point or what has been previously said by others. Post comments that add new information or a different point of view, or share your knowledge or expertise. If you’re unsure if your comment adds value, don’t post it.

Debate respectfully, comment thoughtfully

  • Don’t post misinformation, or use comments for self promotion or spam.
  • Don’t get personal. Use commenting to debate ideas and improve the conversation without making personal attacks. Name-calling, or attacking another commenter, will not be tolerated.
  • Don’t use profanity, impersonate others or expose private information.
  • Don’t post comments containing offensive, abusive or hate speech.
  • Be succinct and let others speak. Avoid lengthy comments, cut and pastes of articles or numerous outside links. (If you’d like to make a longer, well-reasoned argument, submit a letter to the editor and we’ll be happy to review it—use this form.)
  • Read before your comment to avoid repeating what’s already been said. 
  • Comment with intention. Don’t monopolize the conversation or respond to every comment that is being made.
  • If you see an error in a story and want it corrected, do not post it in comments. Instead, email contact@montclairlocal.news.

Questions about comments?

We do not allow moderation questions in the comments section. If you believe a comment violates the policy, please email us at contact@montclairlocal.news. We do our best to respond to inquiries about comments.