I smell a little civil war brewing amongst our friends in the religious right. Yesterday a number of them claimed they were NOT opposed to the airing of Saving Private Ryan on ABC to commemorate Veterans Day. Today, the American Family Association is filing a complaint against ABC for airing the film.
It's time the religious right came clean about why they have such disdain for our war veterans? First Cleland, now Kerry, now this. Perhaps we can get the Pentagon to clean up the next war so the religious right isn't embarrassed to have our kids learn about it.
Here's their letter bitching about the movie. I'll say it again. Any military folks out there who voted for Bush, this is what you voted for as well. Bush and the religious right. They're a package. First they came after us, now they're coming after you. Not so much fun after all, is it?
November 12, 2004
File an indecency complaint against ABC for 'f' word and 's' word
Dear James,
Last night (November 11), the ABC network broadcast "Saving Private
Ryan."
We believe "Saving Private Ryan" accurately depicted what happens during fierce battles between two armies. The graphic depictions of atrocious injuries, mental stress, profane language, and brutality are likely common occurrences in war.
But ABC crossed the line by airing at least 20 "f" words and 12 "s" words during prime time viewing hours!
We realize it is important for families, especially our children, to recognize the sacrifices made by our loved ones during wartime. However, airing excessively profane language during prime-time television hours is not necessary to convey that sacrifice. We believe ABC should have aired their salute to heroes without violating broadcast decency laws.
Despite the FCC finding the use of the "f" word indecent during the Golden Globe Awards last year, ABC flaunted the law by airing it at least 20 times!
The technology exists for ABC to have edited the movie's language without affecting its impact on the audience. The realities of war do not automatically give the ABC entertainment network FCC approval to air the "f" word and the "s" word on public airwaves during prime time viewing hours when children are likely to be watching.
If ABC goes unchallenged, the door is open to these words being used anytime the networks choose! They can simply say the words were used "in context" to real life and get away with it.
It is vital that we not let ABC violate the law for the sake of an emotionally charged movie. If we do, we will pay a dear price on future movies and shows broadcast by the networks.
If your local ABC station broadcast "Saving Private Ryan," please file your complaint with the FCC. If you are not sure, follow this link to find contact information for your ABC station and call or email them to find out. http://capwiz.com/afanet/dbq/media
File your complaint against ABC for broadcasting indecency now!
http://www.onemillionmoms.com/TakeAction.asp?id=175
Sincerely,
Donald E. Wildmon, Chairman
OneMillionMoms.com
