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I have been long been a fan of ABC shows and the Disney Company, but I cannot continue to support either the network or its parent company after today. I adore “Lost” and A&E. My children enjoy the Disney Channel. We hold season’s passes to Disney World and are frequent visitors. But given your network’s decision to air the docudrama "Path to 911,” we will no longer be able to support your company.
Airing this show in an election year is ill-advised considering the current administration has chosen to politicize September 11, 2001. Obviously I have not yet seen the film. However, it was written by Cyrus Nowrasteh, a highly partisan Republican activist, and Richard Clarke indicated events depicted in the film did not happen. Clearly, the objectivity of this film is highly suspect.
I am concerned this film may be a partisan political polemic timed to air within an election cycle. Your choice to air an alleged partisan revision of history is puzzling considering it is a clear violation of Disney corporate policy. Concerning “Fahrenheit 9/11,” Michael Eisner said Disney "did not want a film in the middle of the political process…our guests, that participate in all of our attractions, do not look for us to take sides."
Why does Disney have one policy for Michael Moore and another for Cyrus Nowrasteh while intending to convey an attitude of nonpartisanship?
My family has previously not participated in boycotts, but your decision to air the “Path to 9/11” demonstrates not only a double-standard but a willingness to participate in political propaganda. I am well aware of President Clinton’s attempts to fight terrorism and the Republican-dominated Congress’ disdain of such measures.
I do intend to watch ABC for one last time. Despite a desire to do otherwise, I will tape "Path to 9/11" and to take notes. I will evaluate whether the film treats the subject evenhandedly. I sincerely hope this is the case, but have my reservations given Mr. Nowrasteh’s public statements showing contempt for Americans who identify themselves with the Democratic party..
If warranted, I fully intend to lodge a complaint with the FCC. I will contact ABC sponsors and let them know I will no longer purchase their products. I will contact members of Congress involved in the oversight of the FCC and ask that they investigate your decision to air the program to decide whether it is a violation of campaign finance law.
Despite my reluctance and deep sadness, my family will boycott your theme parks, WTVD, ESPN, Baby Einstein, The Disney Channel, Lifetime, A&E, Walt Disney Pictures, Touchstone Pictures, Hollywood Pictures, Miramax Films, Buena Vista Home Entertainment, Pixar, Hyperion Books, all of the various Disney properties, and all licensed merchandise associated with any of the above.
I know that countless Americans feel as I do about the reported content of this program. If ABC and the Disney Company is sincere about maintain its image as a non-partisan company, you will provide alternative programming and release “Path to 9/11” straight to video.
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