XAC
INFORMATION
INDEX
This page is designed as a support page for the
XENITES AGAINST CENSORSHIP
MAILING LIST
This XAC Index is a collection of selected posts to the XAC list.
It is presented to provide a point of reference for persons seeking information about the movement to combat censorship of Xena Warrior Princess.
At present there are emails from 6 April 1999 to 9 May 1999.
Complied by JacQuest
7 May 1999
Stand-in Speaks
From: "trish shields" <trish_shields@bc.sympatico.ca>
I got mail coming out of my ears. I got people
who want to send money for ads, I got Dan, Becky,
Lisa, DSWriter, and others yapping why an ad in a
Hollywood Trade expressing concern over fan censorship
of 'The Way' is anathema...Stand-In>>
Well, for one...I think Sharon did say to hold off on any ad...she would be
the one with her finger on the pulse of things....but really, the reason I'm
writing this...
I took your remark about 'yapping' very seriously. I found it extremely
offensive to belittle these women and their fine work. I think it does them
and yourself a great disservice to act this way.
When you consider the time and effort these people and countless others have
put into this protest petition, I would think a load of thanks would be owed
not snide comments. JMO, but l think an apology is in order.
Trish
Stand-in Speaks
From: Mist <cassetta@ix.netcom.com>
I've been reading your rhetoric about this issue for several weeks now, and
don't know what it is you expect to accomplish with the kind of agitation
you seem to want to incite. I don't agree with your postion, as I have
stated previously, but that isn't what bothers me about what you post. I am
always willing to listen to a reasoned and reasonable argument, and I don't
discount or dismiss another person's opinion because it doesn't agree with
mine. What bothers me about what you post, I realize, is that I can't quite
figure out what it is you really do want. Your delivery is very theatrical.
Intentionally so, it appears. Problem is, that delivery sets my antennae
twitching. Half the time I'm not sure if you're a misguided evangelist or a
used car salesman. I know what you say you want fans to do, but frankly,
your insistence on taking this to higher and higher levels (and always more
public ones) goes way beyond making a point with StudiosUSA. There is
something else working here. I don't understand it, and I can't put my
finger on it, but I am sure it is making me very uncomfortable.
> The people at USA Studios are aware of the
> petitions, they APPRECIATE your letters and
> concern over the matter. I would also like to say
> that they have no objection to fans placing an ad in
> Variety or any other publication expressing sincere
> feelings over the matter. I mentioned the idea of
> being a 'little' more visible with perhaps a group of
> 200 or a 1000 of us Xenites appearing in a friendly
> gathering expressing our concerns in front of the
> media, that did give a moment of pause, but met with
> no objections.
Do you now presume to speak for StudiosUSA? I don't recall seeing them issue
any statement that remotely sounds like what you are suggesting. Or did I
miss that?
You keep recounting these "chats" you're having with everyone from the local
TV affiliates to StudiosUSA. I have my reservations about the veracity of
those claims as well.
And the very idea of 1000 people attending this "friendly" gathering you
propose leaves me shivering. What are you thinking? What could you possibly
hope to accomplish with that? Who is going to orchestrate it? You? Sounds
like a recipe for disaster to me.
I think it is time you take a step back and examine what it is you are doing
and saying. This isn't about you. It isn't about me. It isn't about there
being some huge public hue and cry. It is about getting StudiosUSA to
reconsider its decision. It is not about embarrassing them, or anyone else
for that matter. It seems to me that you appear more interested in getting
attention brought to yourself and the fans than about the underlying issues.
Or why the need for a very public action such as the ad or the rally?
You've gotten a lot of good advice from Kit, dswriter, Becky, and a lot of
other people who you should take the time to listen to, and not just pay lip
service to the fact that they've attempted to make you reason out what you
are doing. A little bit of information with no attempt to apply rational
analysis is a very dangerous thing.
> In short, do what you will. This is our CHANCE not
> only to protest the pulling of an episode, but to make
> it known to the ENTIRE Industry that censorship of
> this kind is reprehensible. It's not just about the XAC
> Mailing List making a stand, it's not just about Xenites
> making a stand against this, it's about people who
> believe that a tv medium should be allowed to express
> itself freely and openly.
Personally, I resent that you are attempting to incite other fans to actions
that have repercussions that aren't being carefully considered or presented.
I also resent that you plan to do it in the name of fans of the show. That
group of fans includes me, and I (like many others) don't want my name
associated with any such ad placement. You're gung-ho to do something very
visible and dramatic, without thought to the consequences. I seriously
suggest you sit back and consider what you are suggesting.
Mistopholees
Noah
From: Cindy Pavusek <spirit_of_artemis@yahoo.com>
I only saw bits and pieces of the movie, but I must say, I also believe
it went against all Bible accounts of Noah, Lot, the Ark, and Sodom and
Gomorrah. I was extrememly surprised to see how the writers of the
movie made Noah's sons to be such a sex-wanting group of boys. I think
the movie made a mockery of the whole story. How the children laughed
at Noah in the beginning when he was talking to God and seemed to be
dancing! I know that wasn't in the Bible. I agree with Mr. Osmun,
where are the Christians and Bible bearing people who should be asking
for cencorship of "Noah's Ark." If the Hindus are going to argue about
the fictionous manner of Krishna portrayed in "The Way," then
Christians should protest the fictionous manner of Noah and his story
in "Noah's Ark."
Ad Debate
From: Judi Mair <jmair@ais.net>
>>>> What would the ad be telling them actually? There are dozens
of ads in Variety each week. Most of them are lost in the jumble and
clutter. How would you insure that the ad would be noticed let alone
have
any effect at all?<<<<<
This is a very valid point...I worked to place an ad for another show
2 in fact...after months of hard work and nightmares to numerous to go
into
I felt it was a waste of time and money and it cause many hard feelings
all for nothing.
>>>Well there's the matter of designing the ad in a profession manner.
An eye
catching effective ad usually requires the services of a professional
advertising firm for the design.<<<<
Even with the services of a professional nothing is a given... ads
especially in Variety are not the place for making a point...I think
they tend to be more a platform for getting attention which I think the
petitions are already doing. I don't like the idea of trying to make the
studio look bad as much as I disagree with what they did. This tactic
more often then not backfires. It is very hard to make anything
eyecatching in black and white which is what you are going to get for
$2500.
>>>How do you propose accounting for the money and insuring it's proper
use to
the satisfaction of everyone?<<<
You don't, no matter how hard you try you will not please everyone only
adding to the fustration of those that work on getting the ad placed.
You can account for the money but you won't satisfy everyone. Been There
Done That
>>>If you collect more money than the ad requires, what are the
provisions for
the extra revenue? How do you account for it? Will there be an
audit?<<<
An audit may never happen but you better be prepared to answer to one.
Also if you think the solution of any extra revenue going to a charity
is reasonable...think again. This could quite possibly start another
ugly confrontation...you won't get everyone to agree on what charity...
>>>>Will the bank account be in your name? If not, who will have legal
control?
(I'm assuming you will want checks that will be deposited --- cash gets
stolen in the mail very easily, besides which it is untraceable.)<<<
the accountant who will be held accountable for an audit should be the
one to collect the funds..they should have one other person who is
verifying the contributions and that is it...you have more people
involved in collecting the money, you are asking for trouble...the
account should be set up so the contributors can direct deposit their
checks, we actually set up a foundation in order to cover this
>>>Will everyone who contributes money have approval over the final Ad
copy?
I doubt if people want their name and money associated with a pig in a
poke.
How are you going to coordinate the final copy?<<<<
Oh boy is this a good question :) the answer is they can't. They have to
trust the ad designer and the people placing the ad...and like I said
you won't please everyone, then after watch out for the slings and
arrows...you will need Xena there to catch them. We had a staff of seven
people who worked for months on a thankless project. Afterwards what
several people accuse us of was trying to make a name for ourselves.
That wasn't the case but in retrospect I can see why they thought that.
After all was said and done the only thing that really was accompolished
was everyone knew who the staff were....we got what little attention
that was generated even having one of us interviewd on "Access
Hollywood" and quoted in an article in "USA Today".
>>>I'm certain that Valerie at Variety is only too happy sell another
ad. Does
she work on commission by any chance?<<<<
This is very true...when we place our first ad, we had to jump through
hoops...getting everything okayed. You need permission for everything :)
and you have to be very careful how you word things..The first ad was
place in USA Today and was very expensive but they had stipulations that
had to be adhered to and we didn't want to be sued. The second ad was
placed as a goodbye to the show...the rep from Variety never asked us if
we had clearance to use pictures and let us name networks...The ad we
used in fact was rejected by the network and USA Today for the first one
.So I do think the above is a fair statement.
And for $2500 we are hoping they read the ad and take it to heart? If
5000
names on a petition don't get their attention, how can we expect one ad
to
have any effect. The names represent viewers. A single ad just
represents money.
I think spending that amount of money on something that is already being
achieved by hard work is not the way to go. If the need to spend money
is still there I like the donation route much better. Worse case people
who need help will get it.
You have some private revelation, Stand in? Tell us where YOU think
the
petition thing is going and WHY you think that, Stand in. Who have
YOU
talked to at Renaissance or Studios USA?
I also question why Stand-In who had the idea about the ad stops at not
getting involved in the actual process. When I first suggested placing
an ad a couple of years back I was the one "elected" to get the ball
rolling. I was the one who put together the staff and I was still there
at the end taking the crap from the unhappy campers. It is all well and
good to lay a foundation but if this is such a good idea why not go all
the way? Sorry if this is a bit harsh but I really don't think spending
money on an ad is going to advance what we intially set out to do. I
guess I am looking at this though jaded eyes but having had the
experience I just wanted to state that as good and exciting as this
sounds now, and it does, I fear it won't remain that way for long. It
might even end up taking away from the real issue here.I think I already
see that happenning. The industry knows what happenned they don't need
to see it in Variety and even if they do it won't make one bit of
difference. I think the petitions and letters are just a much better way
to go. I salute the people who are continuing on that path.
Judi
jmair@ais.net
Charity
From imanumso@yahoo.com
I think donating to a charity is an excellent idea. As far as the question "How do we get recognized for it?" - no on on this list is in or knows somebody in the journalism profession? As far as capitalizing on a donation to gain regocnition - every time we mention the WVA we are giving them free publicity! As long as we donate to a worthy cause, and know it is needed, why shouldn't we benefit? How many celebrities donate or go to parties for the "in" charity? Many people use celebrity to bring awareness to a charity. Many people use a charity to gain celebrity. In either case, if the gesture for the charity is genuine, then both parties benefit. By making a donation with only a little press recognition, that's all we need to start the snowball rolling. An ad seems so pretentious. If we're gonna contribute money, let's put it to good use!
Stand-in Speaks
From: i e <stand-in@juno.com>
Ok, Xenites...
I got mail coming out of my ears. I got people
who want to send money for ads, I got Dan, Becky,
Lisa, DSWriter, and others yapping why an ad in a
Hollywood Trade expressing concern over fan censorship
of 'The Way' is anathema, I got all other kinds of mail...
So, to answer everyone in one post (and probably
initiate a whole other thread -- lol), let me just say
this:
The people at USA Studios are aware of the
petitions, they APPRECIATE your letters and
concern over the matter. I would also like to say
that they have no objection to fans placing an ad in
Variety or any other publication expressing sincere
feelings over the matter. I mentioned the idea of
being a 'little' more visible with perhaps a group of
200 or a 1000 of us Xenites appearing in a friendly
gathering expressing our concerns in front of the
media, that did give a moment of pause, but met with
no objections.
In short, do what you will. This is our CHANCE not
only to protest the pulling of an episode, but to make
it known to the ENTIRE Industry that censorship of
this kind is reprehensible. It's not just about the XAC
Mailing List making a stand, it's not just about Xenites
making a stand against this, it's about people who
believe that a tv medium should be allowed to express
itself freely and openly.
As you may know, the Exec Producer of Buffy the
Vampire Slayer, Joss Whedon decided to pull the episode,
Earshot, because it made reference to high school
massacres. That was his decision. Now, however, the
WB execs are so gunshy and spineless due to the media's
incessant, voyeuristic, sensationalistic daily focus on
high school violence, that they are thinking of cancelling
the final season finale of Buffy because it deals with
students carrying weapons (wooden stakes?) confronting
vamps or other assorted monsters and demons.
It's getting worse, guys, not better. Make your voices
HEARD not just to Studios USA but the ENTIRE Industry...
before precedents are set that solidify into immovable stone
that totally change the range, depth and expression of tv
entertainment forever and all we end up with are Disneyfied
versions of beloved shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and
Xena: Warrior Princess.
Don't let the Warrior Princess' battle cry ring hollow, nor let
it be stiffled to a whimper!
Stand-in
From: "tammy " <tammytweet@angelfire.com>
From: DefiantHrt@aol.com
>
>Hello -
>
>After watching "The Bitter Suite" on USA tonight, I noticed a few things...
>(1) scenes were edited out - the one i notices was when Joxer pulls Gabby out
>of the river.
>
tammy replies--
USA network has a bad habit of editing their programs that are aired. they seem to do it to everything. they had chopped up 'heavy metal' to a point beyond recongnition. Movies as charming as 'A Christmas Story' have been guilloteened as well.
tammy
6 May 1999
USA Editing
From: DefiantHrt@aol.com
Hello -
After watching "The Bitter Suite" on USA tonight, I noticed a few things...
(1) scenes were edited out - the one i notices was when Joxer pulls Gabby out
of the river. she's supposed to spin through the air (naked) and then land
behind the bush. and, someone pointed another scene out to me. when
callisto's doing her "Song of the Fool" and she gets on top of Xena...
someone said this was omitted. i didn't notice this one.
(2) editing out certain words - Ares' classic line "Ding dong, the bitch is
dead" is now reduced to "Ding dong, the _____ is dead". and, when Xena says
"bastard" it is omitted. oddly enough, her remark of 'bastard' was left in
the beginning when she's on the mountain.
I have also noticed that USA edited out another "bad word" (ooh) in the
episode "The Price". And, Xena's NOTHING with their language. This is not
vulgar at all. Don't these people watch NYPD Blue where their language makes
ME blush and every other episode used to have a sex scene or a butt shot?
Okay, that's just my dos dinars. Thanks.
Noah
From: Matthew Osmun <imanumso@yahoo.com>
Has anyone heard of any uproar over NBS's miniseries
"Noah"? Did anyone watch? My mother and stepfather,
who is a Baptist minister, said it was "the most
blasphemous" version of the Bible story they ever saw.
They only watched parts, and couldn't help but laugh
in disbelief. Anyway, my point is, as far as I'm
aware, no Christian groups protested the airing of the
program, which completely went against accounts of the
Bible in regards to Noah, Lot, and Soddom & Gamorrah.
I'm not sure if this could be a benefit or detriment
to us, but I thought I'd bring it to everyone's
attention.
To ad or not to ad
From: DefiantHrt@aol.com
In a message dated 5/6/99 12:35:50 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
lucy.tan@iapso.org writes:
<< I think since most everyone is willing to 'donate' money for the ad,
donating it to a charity would indeed make more sense. If we use just one
banner, like XAC, I'm sure we can get the media's attention. I wasn't overly
sure about the 'ad in the paper' route, but I'm all for THIS suggestion.
can everyone vote on this so we can start to flesh out the plan?
lucy >>
I think THIS is a good idea. Donate money in the name of XAC. That would
seem more appropriate. Also, we wouldn't have to worry about what to say in
the add.... if we would offend people...... if it would create bad
media......... if we would sound whiny.
I know that Sword and Staff works 'for the greater good' and donates all the
times in the name of Xena.
I'LL BE SENDING MY HARD COPY PETITIONS....
From: i e <stand-in@juno.com>
If you guys are getting people to sign the petitions and you
want them to mail these hardcopies in to someone, why
not have Lisa Jain as the recipient? If not her, I would
be glad to take them all.
In fact, after I get them all I wouldn't mind delivering
them 'personally' to Mr. Solomon or some other exec. You
know, shake their hand, and say: "Hi, just something from
the fans of Xena: Warrior Princess, Ken!"
Then, I think I'd ask Ken how he thinks we should word the
ad in Variety...lol! BTW, will someone pleeeeeeeease start
collecting the money for the ad cause I'm getting way too
many mails from people who say they want to send in
$20-30 at a time and I have to keep telling them, "NO, don't
send me the money! We gotta appoint someone first." Never
thought I'd be telling people I don't like money. (:
Also, starting this ad campaign will help dull the pain everytime
DSWriter calls me 'stupid'. LOL! Shhhhhhh! Don't tell DSWriter
I said that or she'll come after me again with her deadly quill.
Stand-in (:
(standing in IT)
5 May 1999
XWP Removed from South African Television
From: "Jim Shaffer, Jr." <jshaffer@csrlink.net>
Who asked them to show it to their young viewers in the first place? This
reminds me of Sky in the UK, who heavily censor certain episodes because they're
too violent for the children's time slot they're shown in, rather than moving
them out of the children's time slot. Of course, we're talking about a country
that spawned censorship advocates who thought "Dr. Who" was too scary for
children. (I wonder how Mary Whitehouse felt about her portrayal on Pink
Floyd's "Animals"?)
The Way
From: "Gemma Dean-Furlong" <gemmaery@hotmail.com>
am I meant to send this to you? I don't really get it properly.
Anyway, I want The Way. In tons of movies and tv shows gods have been
represented as fictional; the greek gods in Herc ad Xena, the Christian god
in Monty Python skits and the Simpsons, and others that I can't think of
right now. But the point is that it IS fictional, it is not a true
representation of Krishna and no offense is intended. So please let us have
The Way
2 May 1999
From: "Maria" <takacs-lambert.msn@attcanada.net>
I do believe that it is a GOOD idea for Lucy NOT to get involved with
this personally. After all she "just works there and follows instructions".
Please excuse me for this but I believe most of us agree ? This is her job
and the decisions are in TPTB and Studios USA hands. Her involvement might
even backfire. The actors only do the job that they are given. And most of
the time they not sure what the outcome will be until they themselves see
the finished product. By that time they (actors) don't really have much to
do with the show, or even if they don't like it, it's a bit too late. As I
said THE POWERS are the decision makers. I also believe it is their job to
clean up the mess, so to speak. (Especially since they are the ones who
created this mess IMHO for loosing they "backbone")
OK. So how much trouble am I in now ?
Everyone keep up the good work.............a n d ........
BATTLE ON..............FOR THE GREATER GOOD...............
Maria (FTGWN)
29 Apr 1999
From: Pawkat@aol.com
Hi
I just finished reading your letter to Ms. Woodell. I am so truly happy
that you wrote an excellant letter to her and conforted her on every
point(with her own quotes) she stated and indeed showed her that she did not
do her homework very well.
Perhaps she might think twice before writing about something she has no
idea about. Or else she will take the time to research it before making an
ass of herself.
It is inspired letters like yours that will do our cause alot more good
than the bad mouthing and accusing letters.
I have been here since the beginning of this campaign and everyone is doing
such a fanastic job of organizing and finding out the addresses/e-mails /etc.
It is amazing that all of us who didn't each other have become close and
working for the greater good.
From: "Angelica Dominguez Moussier" <angie01@mixmail.com>
Hi guys !
I'm a Mexican Xena fan and have followed the things about
the censorship of The Way.
I'm really interested in this because we are dealing with
something that can't be happening when we are so close to
the 21st. century: Intolerance.
How, or should I say Why, a minor group of people can decide
wether en episode or the complete series can be on or off
tv??
Don't they know the freedom of choice?
If they don't like something, then they should avoid seing
it, and let us all see what we like. But I don't consider
fair that just a bunch of intolerant close-minded people
have the power on that.
I could say a lot more, but this time, what I really need is
someone to tell me how can I help ?
We don't have the same episodes as the ones you have, here
Xena just started again after Sins of the Past, I think,
sorry, but I don't remember names that well.
Anyway, that chapter was the end of a season, and I guess
they don't have the next chapters, so I haven't had the
chance to see The way. I know what it is about, but is not
the same.
My point is that I need someone to tell me how can I help, i
signed the petition and every poll I've seen, but I'm really
limited because of the broadcasting thing.
I'll really appreciate if anyone could give me a hint on
what to do, and keep me up to date on what happens.
Thank you.
Angie Dominguez.
(525)537-47-56
27 Apr 1999
From: "George Bone" <george_bone@hotmail.com>
For those that didn't read it it's at:
http://www.phillynews.com/daily_news/99/Apr/27/opinion/DEBB27.htm
I found people were mentioning it on the list but had to go hunt it
down as nobody had mentioned where we could see it.
Ms Woodell is clearly clueless. No wonder her normal place is on the
sports desk - from this piece it seems clear that this is where she
belongs. It was very appropriate that she was listening to Dire
Straits "Money for Nothing" as she was writing the article as that's
exactly what she was being paid for.
Others have gone through the points one by one so I wont bother to
waste my time on her pathetic drivel here although I would be
interested to see what in her opinion constitutes her bizarre concept
of "valid" censorship. Perhaps cancellation of a ball game to make
way for a news of Kosovo?
I suppose it's to be expected that someone from a sports desk
background would consider Art a competition where some works are more
important then others and to assume the unimportant ones (in their
opinion) don't matter if they are censored.
What a shame she cannot, given the chance, write something more
intelligent, rewarding and insiteful then the sports results. Perhaps
it makes it easier when she has hunky football heroes to concentrate
on while listening to Knopflers dweedling on her cheesy stereo,
rather then these silly women living in some sort of fantasy land and
practising weird sex (as she seems to believe).
What more can I say?
gb.
26 Apr 1999
From: "Alicia Lewis" <aleatha@mailcity.com>
I know that we are all thinking of good points to make, if anyone wishes to appropriate any of these, be my guest. This is more concerned with the London complaint.
In a world where day time drama hawks sexual promiscuity and irresponsible, grasping greed the hullaboo surrounding Xena with regards to young children being exposed to objectionable material seems ludicrous. Television is a powerful form of expression and will be misused as often as it is well-used. Parents have the obligation to monitor their children's exposure to programs and put violence and sexual activity into the proper context; ratings and later time slots for more expicit programming is one way in which producers help their viewers accomplish this objective. But in the end there is no possible way for television executives to protect our young, expecially since that is our job.
No, the show is not too "hot", it is rather well done. Parents can choose to turn the program off if they are concerned for their children. They can also sit and watch the program with their children, discussing what has occured and how it makes their child feel. Or they can blame the show for being too violent and do nothing at all. But to deny others their right to view is truly unnecessary.
>
24 Apr 1999
From: i e <stand-in@juno.com>
These and many more films depicting Krishna in a
fictional, sometimes humorous if not irreverent manner,
and available on video and complete with film reviews may
be found using search engines like Alta Vista.
Gang, we've gotta compile a list of titles along with short
plot summaries mentioning the use of Krishna or some other
Hindu deity, send them to Studios USA, have Ken Solomon
send someone into the Indian community in the Los Angeles
area so they can rent these titles and see first hand that Indian
filmakers, here, in Canada, and in India, do make films, tv
shows, music videos that use the character of Krishna.
Boy, will the execs of Studio USA feel foolish then.
From: "Becky Calvert" <lostkiwi@worldnet.att.net>
I agree with Kicker. There is a good chance the Buffy ep will air later in
the line up. This would be humane and sensitive. The same thing happened
with 2 movies--Space Camp which was to open the week or two before the
shuttle accident, and Marooned which was due out about the time of the
Apollo 13 accident. Both movies were pulled back and released at a later
date, but they were released. I think the same will happen with the Buffy
episode--or at least I hope so. However taking an episode out because it
reflects a recent true life tragedy is good sense and psychologically
beneficial for everyone involved. Removing an episode from worldwide
syndication because a few people get their feelings hurt or "Their God" is
no longer "Top God" is a whole other issue--the one we are protesting
about.
Becky Calvert
Commander in Chief
SSPA/NBB
<http://www.nutbread.com>
From: i e <stand-in@juno.com>
Suddenly, I've become Censor Sensitive. Because
of my involvement in the campaign to reinstate the
airing of 'The Way,' I can't help but notice the many
other art forms or tv or films that have been blacklisted,
sabotaged, or covered up because some critic or
someone in a position higher up decided it wasn't fit for
public viewing.
Last night, as I watched a documentary on the
restoration of the Sistine Chapel and the last Judgement,
I couldn't help but become fascinated by the secrets
revealed as Italian restorers cleaned away hundreds of
years of dirt and paint put on by artists other than
Michelangelo for reasons of censorship. The countless
loincloths that were painted on the various lifeforms in an
effort to make the scene more 'decent' in the 16th century
were stripped away. In one case, one such cleaning revealed
that Michelangelo had a wicked sense of humor and
revenge in that he had caricaturized someone who was
famous for criticizing Michelangelo's work, showing the
critic being dragged down to hell and tortured by a snake.
One of the great movie classics, considered the greatest
film ever made is Citizen Kane. I'll never watch that film or
think of it the same way since viewing documentaries about
the story behind the film. It's no secret that the film was a
stab by Orson Welles at newspaper king, William Randolph
Hearst, but I didn't realize how deep a stab it was. The
immortal last word of the dying Kane is: "Rosebud." The
unknowing viewer is left to contemplate that it was an
expression of Kane's longing for a lost childhood symbolized
by a toy snow sled that had 'Rosebud' painted on it. Yet,
in an in-depth PBS special, it is shown that 'Rosebud' was
Hearst's pet name for his mistress' genitals. No wonder
Hearst sought so hard to have the film blackballed and did
so quite successfully.
Just yesterday, the latest incident of censorship, an over-
reaction to the mass murders in the Colorado high school
appeared...
------------------------------------------------------------
TV shows, films cancelled
due to massacre
By CLAIRE BICKLEY -- Toronto Sun
National youthcaster YTV decided not to
air next week's episode of Buffy The
Vampire Slayer, in which the evil-fighting
teenager overhears a mass murder plot at
her high school and must keep it from
being carried out.
YTV, the series' national Canadian
carrier, will substitute a Buffy rerun in the
timeslot a week from Saturday.
"We're pulling the episode. We won't be
airing it," said YTV spokesperson Laura
Heath.
"It's not appropriate at this time. Our
programming people are parents and it's
just, as a parent, it would be offensive to
air something like that."
Buffy's local broadcaster, Barrie's VR,
will withhold judgment until they can
screen the episode this weekend. VR airs
Buffy Monday nights at 8.
"It may still run. At this point, we've
decided to see it ourselves and make the
decision on behalf of ourselves," said VR
spokesperson Anita Cenerini.
Buffy's U.S. broadcaster The WB had
not made a decision late yesterday about
whether to air the episode, titled Earshot,
which they would show Tuesday night at 8
and which would be available here on WB
superstations WGN and WPIX.
Earshot was to have been the first original
Buffy after weeks of reruns.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Where do we draw the line? Who decides what is
appropriate and what is not? I'm sure many of us would
agree that the censorship of Michelangelo's paintings is
laughable, but the people back then must have thought
it highly appropriate and the socially/morally correct
thing to do. Is there alot of over-reaction to art
mediums especially in the case of a tv fantasy series
like Buffy and Xena? Most of us would say yes in the
case of the recent censorship of 'The Way,' but now
with the school massacre incident, how many would
say "Maybe not," in the case of the Buffy episode
which touches upon the idea of a school massacre?
Something to think about.
Stand-in
21 Apr 1999
From: MelosaQu@aol.com
Agreed. I, for one, wouldn't even know *what* to boycott....seems like there
are different sponsors for different affiliates. I don't pay much attention
to the commercials and don't really buy what they try to sell.....so a
boycott, for me, would be out. I certainly wouldn't boycott the
show/program/series I enjoyed. As for WGN (as an example)....that station
has saved my viewing pleasure many a time! When my local station chose to
pre-empt XWP to show a sports program or game....WGN has *always* been my
saving factor, my backup!....Bless You, WGN!! <G> Besides....violence begets
violence (figuratively, not literally here).....do we really want to be part
of that?
Just my thoughts....
Kim
This is from Lynne.......listen to the commander........
And for me, I agree.......without reservation.... While this may be just
my opinion...allow me to put in something I felt strongly about.....
"Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the
process he (she) does not beome a monster. (FriedrichNietzsche)
I still think to write letters of support for artistic freedom, and the
impact of censorship in the media is still a better way to go..... quality,
quantity will win out here......and letting them know that this is how the
masses of their viewership (is this a word?) feels about The Way, and Xena
overall still seems better....of course the "other" side purported to
represent their masses too.......People who trust their leaders will, and I
do in this cause. Let me tell you about my experiences during military
service in the Viet Nam Era sometime......privately........ We all know the
power of a word.......dyke, fag, pervert, racial slurs, so let's not use
terms that scare the bejesus out of the media....(and I wonder if it
would)....boycott.......
Battle on !!!!!!!!!!! for The Greater Good !!!!!!!!!
From: "Becky Calvert" <lostkiwi@worldnet.att.net>
Do we really want to play as dirty and stoop as low as the
fundamentalists??
I think we can accomplish our goals and still remain civilized and
non-threatening.
And our counter protest is just now picking up speed. Let's see where we
go before we even consider acting as our adversaries did.
Becky Calvert
From: DefiantHrt@aol.com
In a message dated 4/20/99 11:41:45 PM Eastern Daylight Time,
MelosaQu@aol.com writes:
<< However, I personally don't have a problem with TPTB putting a
disclaimer at the beginning of the episode.....Buffy does and occasionally
so
does the X-Files. Although, XWP does put a disclaimer (no, I am not talking
about the humorous ones! <G>) at the end of each episode, I guess this time
it didn't count, eh? ::::sigh:::: >>
I think this is a very good point. On every Xena episode, it clearly
states (after the humorous Disclaimer and "Filmed entirely on location...")
that the events depicted are fictitious and any similarities (you know the
wording) is coincidental.
This is a good point to bring up, because with that disclaimer, there is
no cause for "complaints and protests" from those who wanted it removed from
syndication.
I also feel that the first point of Krishna being depicted inaccurately
was simply sugarcoating for the real "problem" with the episode - point
2...the subtext. And, with this realization, it makes me even more mad.
This is not about an inaccurate depiction of a god; it truly is a case of
hate mail and homophobia.
Thanks for listening.
-DefiantHrt-
"We all eventually become what we pretend we are." [Blind Faith]
Actually, I was thinking of a counter-boycott against the show's commericial
sponsors, but only if they were initially threatened with boycotts from the
other side. As for a boycott of StudioUSA's other shows, how would they know
if those shows were being boycotted? How do you let a producer know you're not
watching his shows unless you're part of the Nielsen rating survey group?
Bongo Bear - the it Bear.
20 Apr 1999
From: Simone <samwin@labyrinth.net.au>
I must say that people are coming up with great ideas on how to get the
way back on air. Things such as changing the name of Krishna, putting a
warning at the start etc (sorry I dont remember who said what!) I know
there have been other ideas, but a big problem is that we are telling
XAC and not those that matter, the studios. So, I think if we can set up
some sort of idea list, making it as extensive as possible and sending
it to them, we will be showing we are not just protesting, but we are
also willing to help give ideas on re-instating it. Some may feel its a
cop out, but I think we need as much positive action as well as the
protesting.
Does anyone have the resources to set this up???
Simone
Hi folks, I don't know about you, but I've written more letters for this cause since the French were nuking the South Pacific, and I really, really believe that we should keep on pushing and pushing until the public pressure works.
Anyways, I thought I might bring up another item which might bring some bearing to our cause, the film Lolita took some time getting to our shores (Australian, but I understand the Americans had the same debate) because of fundamentalists of a different type (heh but they are all the same really), wanting this show censored because of misconceptions (once again many had not seen the film). I have this from the website of SBS television http://www.sbs.com.au/ and I think it sums up our cause as well.
.
Lolita Debate
I know that many of you are sick to death of the Lolita Issue but in fact the issue is not about Lolita at all, it's about the climate in this country at the moment that is inclined to repress information, art, film and literature. And why we are so concerned about this issue on the Movie Show is that we actually love film, we regard it as an art form in all its manifestations. We think that the vast majority of adults in this country are responsible and are able to view provocative material with some degree of judgement. We've been so invigorated by the response we've had to our invitation to you to participate in this debate. I want you to know that I've read every letter and there were over three hundred and we thank you for them.
All but 5 of the messages we received express dismay at the thought that Lolita might be banned. Some of you took the argument further:
Quote: "The film Lolita is not the issue....The issue of the government wanting to dictate, filter, control and monitor the content of what the general public are allowed to see is an enormous issue." Unquote.
Out of the hundreds of communications there were, as I said, only five opposed to the screening of Lolita in this country. It is misrepresentative to give you an example, but in the interests of open debate I will...
Quote: 'I hope this movie is banned! I hope that the public sees you for what you really are - SICK!' unquote.
The censorship issue is an important public debate in this country - and therefore we think it's important that our policy-makers are aware of the overwhelming response we've received. For that reason we've decided to pass on your comments to the Government so they're aware of the depth of feeling that's been expressed. If anyone has any objections to their letter or email being forwarded, please let us know within the next week and we will withhold those.
Which is exactly how we feel about "The Way". This censorship issue has been successfully protested to a degree and it shows that PEOPLE POWER can work.
OK, if you want some more information on the Lolita censorship (and if anyone can see how we can use that to help our cause other then example go ahead lol).
I found this information on this site
Free Speech, Toleration, Civil Liberties
Australia, New Zealand and Oceania
http://www.freemarket.net/directory/news/T12/R6/
and this website.
http://www.efa.org.au/Publish/PR990315.html
Dana
Keep Cool
From Beboman:
I have been contacting all my friends on the net and asking them that even if they are not fans of Xena if they are willing to sign the petition for us and join in the cause, so far all have said yes and I have linked them the petition page. Maybe if we all do the same we might get more people to join us.
Also maybe we can print the petition page and go to the local supermarket and spend a few hour there and see how many people sign the petition and then those hardcopies to USA Network.
I know that is the old fashion way but I think we can use all the signatures we can get,
What do you all think, let me know.
Be Nice!!!!!!!!!!!!
Beboman
19 Apr 1999
Hi again guys.
At local television show in Australia called "Foreign Correspondent" ABC Station. Has just had an article on the Indian movie "Fire" and how it was received in India. (not very well).
For those who don't know, this movie featured a lesbian love affair:
Fire in the Belly
We are being told all the time what we can do, what we can't. What we can see, what we can't. That to me is like the beginning of fascism."
Deepa Mehta. Film Director
In India they're redefining the term 'Box office smash' over Deepa Mehta's film 'Fire'. Storm troopers from the Hindu fundamentalist Shiv Sena party have trashed cinemas that dare to show the film and issued death threats against the Director and actors. By western standards 'Fire' is a very mild film about women's independence with hints of lesbianism, a sort of 'Thelma and Louise' in saris. The film has become a focus for a rapidly deteriorating battle between liberal tolerant India and the passions unleashed by Shiv Sena's cultural and religious intolerance.
Anyways, this show has a website, with a discussion page. Since the pressure to censor "Fire" is similar in nature to our cause, I thought it would be a good idea to put my two dinars in - the website is:
http://www2.abc.net.au/foreign/forum10
It might get more Hindus involved with our cause, as has been said before, this is more than just the ban of a light entertainment show, this is about our basic freedom of expression. I had some pretty strange replies to my post tho lol.
So check out the site.
Bye
Dana
Keep Cool
17 Apr 1999
From: Frankie Radford <fradford@yahoo.com>
--- cjkruger@email.com wrote:
> From: cjkruger@email.com
>
>
--- cjkruger@email.com wrote:
> From: cjkruger@email.com
>
> I just had a thought-believe it or not!!
> What if the character of "krishna" was given another
> name.I mean if "they're" upset about the portrayal
> of krishna, why not just change the name.BUT I
> suppose they would find something wrong with that
> too.
### The issue is a red herring.It is not the name of Krishna that is
the problem but it is the fact that Xena was not suitably repectful or
supplicant in his presence and actually had a dialogue with him
replaying a conversation he reportedly had with Arjuna his
charioteer.Hindiuism has split in to two schools those who worhip shiva
as the greatest of the godhead (Brahma Vishnu Shiva)and those who
considered Vishnu to be supreme.The worship of Krishna began in Bengal
India by Caitanya in the 15th century who insisted that Vishnu was an
incarnation of Krishna and that Lord Krishna was supreme These ideas
were revived in the 20th century and made palatable to Westerners by
Bhaktivedanta Prabhupada who brought them to the US in 1965.In the free
society of the U.S. these ideas flourished religiously and economically
in perfect freedom.The basic freedom that a Free Society provides.The
issue has gone much further than the original issue of religious
proseltyzing and now seeks to impose its will on the system that has
nourished it.Allowing this kind of political censorship sets a
dangerous precedent for the future of democracy as we know it.America
wake up and smell the coffee.Facism has hidden behind religion in the
past and will continue to do so unless we nip this present appearance
in the bud.Everyone's freedom of speech is at stake here Christian Jew
and Moslem and we must defend against a descent in to the MCarthyism of
the past when our Writers and Artists were blacklisted.We must hold
Corporations responsible when our basic freedoms are held hostage for
the sake of Capitalistic economies and profits are valued above that of
freedom and democracy.
> I think the idea of combining all our efforts is an
> excellent idea.Let us know what we can do.
> I would like to know though what Lucy and Renee
> think about all of this.Are they on our side or are
> they sitting on the fence watching.A interview or
> input from them to show their "appreciation" or any
> other feeling for that matter would be inspiring and
> at least show us and those we oppose that the people
> we're standing up for also believe in our cause.Do
> they even know about us? I'd alsolike to know why,if
> it was his favourite episode yet,Rob gave up so
> easily.It's one thing to apologise about it but to
> take it out completely makes me think he's not able
> to stand by his work.I hope that's not the
> case.Maybe a word from him to us.the people standing
> up for HIS creation wouldn't hurt.
### I think we have to be the voice of the people which would include
Mr Tapert,Ms Lawless and Ms Oconner
> How do we contact them?
### Through Renaissance Pictures.
> I hope I have said everything.Thoughts pop into my
> head during the day and always when I'm away from a
> computer.
> Anyhow,we need a list of what we can do and where to
> send protests and emails.So somebody create a
> list and well list them.
> ### I enjoyed your comments and applaud your efforts.
fradford
16 Apr 1999
From: Virginia V Kelly <vkellyian@compuserve.com>
Let's do it. I hope we haven't cooled off too much. We need to spend at
lease a few more weeks to a month on this. Remember, the folks who
protested this situation in the first place protested well over two months,
if I have the info. correct.
In the meantime, I've alerted a number of gay and lesbian mags in the U.S.
and have gotten an inquiry back from one so far.
Unfortunately, I'm not a graphic artist, but I can desktop publish and scan
with the best of 'em!
From: srasmuss@webtv.net (Sue Rasmussen)
I have been reading about the ideas tonight to spread this further
reaching more people who don't have computers.
Someone mentioned the sci-fi conventions. How about the xena and
Hercules conventions. The May convention in Orlando would be a good
place to spread the word about XAC.
Lang mey yer tum reek
From: KimyooFilm@aol.com
In a message dated 4/26/99 1:22:47 AM, you wrote:
<<I beg to differ with you. RenPics had no choice in the matter as to pulling
the episode, they didn't want to in the least. Furthermore, no one shouted
"Help!" at all. I'm sure you must have some idea how this business works,and
realize that the true ones interested in only the money aspect is the
distributors, in this case Studios USA. If they weren't interested in the
fans at all, there would be not much of a convention lineup, or even the
interest some of the staff has shown by going into chats as they have. As for
Rob Tapert not being a filmaker, not technically, but I'd like to point out
that he was highly involved in making of the Evil Dead films, as well as a
terrific director of several episodes of Xena (usually my favorites). His
hand is in every aspect of the shows. He's no mere producer, and believe me,
I've met plenty.
>>
I haven't been on in a while, but I'd like to point out that I have read more
about this and I agree that it does seem that Studios USA is the ultimate
culprit in the pulling of the episode. The whole reason why I started
watching Xena in the first place was because it was a Raimi production - I've
been a fan of his / theirs for years. I'm very familiar with the job of
producer, there are certain duties one must do that I absolutely abhor.
Because of this I know that it's not just the distributers that are concerned
with bringing in the money. RenPicts is Raimi's and Tapert's, therefore they
are heavily concerned with the income. If they don't produce a moneymaking
product for Studios USA, then they don't make money for their company to make
more products and more money, etc, etc. I would think that they have some
sort of say as to what happens to their product.
<<Another big disagreement there, too! There has never been such a gay
friendly
show...(with the exception of Ellen,but look what happened to that). Liz
Friedman is an out lesbian for crying out loud. I truly appreciate the winks
and nods the show has always made toward the gay audiences. FF&G had tons of
subtext in it.
True, Hollywood could definitely use some work in that dept., especially
considering so many that work in the industry are indeed gay. Everyone is
just afraid of alienating 'middle america' possibly, which boils down to
money. I am also well aware of a similar thing with how the industry treats
people with disabilities in the past, but things are improving there, too.
Disability activist have protested many films and shows as well, I don't
always agree. On this, I do think a counter protest was in order. I would
feel no different if it were a christian group that did this, I've seen some
do appalling attempts at censorship. The ones to target here is indeed the
distributors, not RenPics, not the Hindu group, naturally. Xenites have
learned a lot from our show, and letting our voices be heard in unison like
this, is a terrific thing to behold. >>
I adore the subtext. I live for it, in a manner of speaking. "Fins, Femmes,
and Gems" is one of my absolute favourite episodes ever. I just don't like
LL's comment in this week's TV Guide about it being a big joke. I realize it
wasn't intended at first, but it's a joke? A joke. Hmmm.............
It's all about Middle America and the green papers and clinky change in their
pockets. It's gonna take years to remove stereotypes. I'm relieved that
deleted scenes from Old Hollywood films made during the daysof the Hays
Office are being reinserted. Old Hollywood was just as "decadent" as New
Hollyweird. I was watching Turner Classic Movies the other night and they
were showing a documentary about film restoration. Hollyweird has hardly
changed -the watchdogs have, but the theme of the Legion of Decency is still
prevalent. Things are slowly progressing, but the key word is slowly.
I'm wonderfully stupified at the support shown here and I'm participating
too. I'm just scared of the "Xenalots" who are practically taking up arms to
defend their show. I don't have enough time to go through all the letters
here so I don't know who's a Xenite and who's a Xenalot. There are many who
would probably feel different about it if it were a more "local" effort. "If
the Hindus say it's wrong, THEY'RE wrong, but if Jerry Falwell says it's
wrong ,well then...it must be wrong."
<<Just my two dinars :)>>
And thank the Gods for it! =)
ROCk a little and Battle On!
Magenta
From: bookdaft <bookdaft@voyager.net>
Hi all,
I stopped today to pick up my comics and got into a discussion of "The
Way", Hindus/Indians and other things with my comic store manager. One
thing became clear: People don't really understand what the ban means. He
and I had been talking about it last week and he mentioned in our
conversation today that another customer, who had overheard our
conversation, told him that he had thought the episode would still come out
on video. We need to emphasize that not only will the episode not be aired
again, it won't ever be available (without significant rewriting) in any
medium.
My comic store guy, as rabid a freedom-of-choice and -speech fan as I am,
offered to host a petition in his store. It then occurred to me that we
are too narrow in focus if we stay only with the Internet. It is a great
means of communication, but not everyone has a computer. I have friends
who are computerless and, obviously, wireless.
Since I am behind in reading my e-mail, forgive me if this has already been
mentioned. I suggest to those of you who are comfortable doing it, to
contact either your local library or bookstore and ask if you can leave a
hard copy petition with them. You will probably have to explain the
situation to them and they may refuse, but both libraries and bookstores
strongly believe in the freedom of speech and choice and they would be most
likely to let you leave a petition with them.
I'm going to get permission from the website(s) that have the online
petition to use their wording, but I'll transfer it to paper and leave it
with my comic store guy. I'll also leave a couple of website URLs with him
for the petition and other resources we have available to us online. He is
located near Michigan State University and gets many of the students from
there. They should have access to the Internet and it would be natural for
them to check it out.
bd
From: "Catherine M. Wilson" <cmwilson@wildestdreams.org>
Hawk wrote:
> What does everyone think? Should we form some sort of 'official'
> organization, or has everyone pretty much cooled off by now?
I think we already *are* an organization. Not an official one, of
course, but in our diversity is our strength, in my opinion.
We are many different kinds of people with many different talents,
and we are pooling them via this list in order to achieve a
common goal. The trouble with organizing is that the organizing
itself takes up energy that could better be spent on doing our
part in the protest.
I think we can refer to Xenites Against Censorship without being
in any way 'official.' So we can have all the benefits of an
organization without the baggage.
It seems to me that each of us has managed to find a niche where
we can best use our own particular talents. I think we should
go on as we have been. Once the letters and e-mails have been
written, probably the best and easiest thing to do is get more
names on our petition, so that every week or so another fat
package will land on someone's desk.
;->
Kit
From: xenasis@yahoo.com
Greetings Fellow Xenites,
I like you have been appalled at the pulling of The Way and the censorship surrounding it. I have sent letters to my local station (from which I recieved a very nice letter in support of The Way) and to Studio USA.
I fear however that we are not making the waves needed to reinstate The Way. Each day that goes by with no rsponse from Studio Usa is a day we lose support and the chance to have this episode reinstated.
We must act fast my friends and make our voices heard.
To get Studio USA to pay attention we must hit them where it counts. The wallet. Until they realize how much we fans are responsible for the true success of their network we will have no chance.
We can contact the stockholders. Let them know that the folks that pay the way are unhappy about their decision. We can boycott the network for 24 hours to let them see how many of us there really are. I am open to other suggestions as well. I just know that we cannot lose this battle. It is too important.
Censorship in any Culture is appalling. The Studio was dupped by this group and they want to save face.
We simply have to make them see that we are willing to boycott as well. THIS IS NOT A CALL FOR VIOLENCE!
That would defeat everything Xenites stand for.
Xena stands for the little guy. Good against evil and folks a big evil has reared its head.
This show has done something no other show has. It has united those of different, races, ages, sexes, lifestyles, education and economic backgrounds. That is an impressive feat and not an easy one. I don't want to lose this.
I support Mr Tappert, Ren Pic and the staff and crew that worked on this episode. They created a show that stired my interest in the Hindu culture. That interest has waned in the insuing Controversy.
My final words to you. Fight for your rights. Not with violence but with your brains and other skills. My motto and that of my tribe members on the net is SHOW ME THE WAY!
USA Studios--- SHOW US THE WAY!
April
From: "MARTINE DE GRAUW" <dynamicone@hotmail.com>
Silea,
Very good idea. A friend of mine who lives in the Netherlands (and
I'm in Belgium) received the original episode from a USA friend.
She looked at it and asked why there is a protest anyhow! It seems
there is nothing wrong with the episode! Althoug some very hard
scenes regarding Gaby and Xena, but only a few! For the rest there
is much and good subtext in acting (we know already that Lucy and
Renée are great actresses). There is nothing else to protest too,
according to my friend.
So, please, write to those Hindu's. I can always support you if you
give me some addresses!
A belgian Xenite
Martine
Return to the top
From: "Silea Lawless" <sileakicksbutt@hotmail.com>
Hi Guys- listen, I've been thinking. We've been writing letters,
emails etc. to Channel Ten protesting the censorship, all of which
will probably have little effect, as Studios USA is the big boss.
However, perhaps, in order to give our argument some weight, as
someone suggested earlier (sorry, can't remember who :-) that we
should get the support of Hindu's who have seen or have heard about
this episode and don't have a problem with it. Undoubtably, Hindu's
in Australia would have been informed of the Hindu protest,
especially if they belong to Organisations. Why don't we start
writing to these Hindu organisations in Aus and see what they think?
After all, if we write to Ten and Studios USA, showing them that
(hopefully) the tide has turned in favour of the episode here in Aus,
it'll give our letters more weight. I know that the main problem we
have is that we haven't seen "The Way" yet, but it's worth a shot.
What do you think?
Silea
From: cjkruger@email.com
I just had a thought-believe it or not!!
What if the character of "krishna" was given another name.I mean if "they're" upset about the portrayal of krishna, why not just change the name.BUT I suppose they would find something wrong with that too.
I think the idea of combining all our efforts is an excellent idea.Let us know what we can do.
I would like to know though what Lucy and Renee think about all of this.Are they on our side or are they sitting on the fence watching.A interview or input from them to show their "appreciation" or any other feeling for that matter would be inspiring and at least show us and those we oppose that the people we're standing up for also believe in our cause.Do they even know about us? I'd alsolike to know why,if it was his favourite episode yet,Rob gave up so easily.It's one thing to apologise about it but to take it out completely makes me think he's not able to stand by his work.I hope that's not the case.Maybe a word from him to us.the people standing up for HIS creation wouldn't hurt.
How do we contact them?
I hope I have said everything.Thoughts pop into my head during the day and always when I'm away from a computer.
Anyhow,we need a list of what we can do and where to send protests and emails.So somebody create a
list and well list them.
From: xenasis@yahoo.com
Greetings Fellow Xenites,
I like you have been appalled at the pulling of The Way and the censorship surrounding it. I have sent letters to my local station (from which I recieved a very nice letter in support of The Way) and to Studio USA.
I fear however that we are not making the waves needed to reinstate The Way. Each day that goes by with no rsponse from Studio Usa is a day we lose support and the chance to have this episode reinstated.
We must act fast my friends and make our voices heard.
To get Studio USA to pay attention we must hit them where it counts. The wallet. Until they realize how much we fans are responsible for the true success of their network we will have no chance.
We can contact the stockholders. Let them know that the folks that pay the way are unhappy about their decision. We can boycott the network for 24 hours to let them see how many of us there really are. I am open to other suggestions as well. I just know that we cannot lose this battle. It is too important.
Censorship in any Culture is appalling. The Studio was dupped by this group and they want to save face.
We simply have to make them see that we are willing to boycott as well. THIS IS NOT A CALL FOR VIOLENCE!
That would defeat everything Xenites stand for.
Xena stands for the little guy. Good against evil and folks a big evil has reared its head.
This show has done something no other show has. It has united those of different, races, ages, sexes, lifestyles, education and economic backgrounds. That is an impressive feat and not an easy one. I don't want to lose this.
I support Mr Tappert, Ren Pic and the staff and crew that worked on this episode. They created a show that stired my interest in the Hindu culture. That interest has waned in the insuing Controversy.
My final words to you. Fight for your rights. Not with violence but with your brains and other skills. My motto and that of my tribe members on the net is SHOW ME THE WAY!
USA Studios--- SHOW US THE WAY!
April
15 Apr 1999
From: bookdaft <bookdaft@voyager.net>
Hi guys,
I read Hawk's post and agree we need to get more people involved. If an
organization is what it takes, then go for it. Fan clubs once did this.
I've been working on trying to get the science fiction community involved.
These are the people who worked at getting the original STAR TREK into
movies after working to save the show for a third season. They are VERY
anti-censorship and pro-freedom-of-choice. Why else would they stand the
abuse they have from the mundanes over the years?
So, I'm on staff of an upcoming science fiction convention to be held in
beautiful Lansing, Michigan during the Memorial Day weekend. We get fans
coming in from all over the country, and outside as well (mostly Canada).
Convention membership runs around 800-900 people. The con committee
co-chair is a good friend of mine and he offered to publish something about
the episode. I'm posting what I sent to him below. (By the way, the
Jeanne mentioned below is the gopher captain/con suite organizer.)
____________________________________________________________
'Xena is Sitting on the Hellmouth OR: Xena Loses Her "Way"'
In the tradition of fine corporate pusillanimity, Studios USA, distributor
of Xena: Warrior Princess has pulled an episode of the show, entitled "The
Way", from worldwide syndication. This means it will be seen nowhere, no
time, and very likely never again (sorry about the triple negative).
For those who haven't heard about the controversy, Renaissance Pictures,
which produces Xena, did an episode using Hindu deities. This offended a
group of fundamentalist Hindus called the World Vaishnava Association,
formerly the International Society of Krishna Consciousness (read Hare
Krishnas), based on the belief that the episode treated Krishna as a
fictional character. The group also claimed it showed Krishna approving
Xena and Gabrielle's relationship by helping Xena save her "obviously
lesbian lover". The group then used pressure tactics via the electronic
medium of faxes and e-mail, as well as telephone calls to flood the
affiliates carrying Xena. The volume in some instances were reported to be
as much as 200 e-mails a day. Numbers have been flung about regarding how
many Hindus this group represents, from the population of India to100
billion Hindus (?!). It apparently was based on these numbers that the
affiliates forced Studios USA to cave in and, in turn, forced Renaissance
Pictures to give in as well.
The episode aired in May in this country, but is now banned from being
repeated. Moreover, it is also banned from being shown internationally.
None of these countries have had access to it, so the fans outside the
borders of the US will never see it. Guys, this is censorship. Personally,
I deeply resent anyone deciding for me what I can and cannot watch.
If you want to know more about this controversy or learn about ways to
help, I will have materials covering both the protesters' side and others
opinions, including other Hindus, in the con suite. I have a personal copy
of the episode and Jeanne has agreed to schedule showings during the con a
couple of times, more if there is any interest. Come decide for yourselves
if the episode is worthy of such a ban. For any Canadian fans who were
deprived of your opportunity to see "The Way" when Global Television pulled
it before the first airing (and before Studios USA officially banned it),
this is your chance to see it, commercials and all (contacting the sponsors
can be a good thing).
Help we Xena fans out. This could easily happen to *your* favorite show.
____________________________________________________________
I know at least one of these fans is willing to join us. There should be
more.
Finally, I would like to use some of the posts people have made here in
assembling materials for the con for members to read if they choose. If
you object, please contact me privately. I'll try to contact those of you
whose posts I want to use via your private e-mail.
bd
From: Frankie Radford <fradford@yahoo.com>
### I think the WVA issue that 'The Way' insulted Krishna is a bit of
a political manoevering.Krishna is depicted in many Indian Movies in
conversaton with the lead character so in a sense all potrayals of
Krishna are fictional.I think the Producers depicted Krishna in a
sensitive and respectful manner and I am so surprised that Studios USA
pulled the episode.I think this sets a dangerous precedent and may be
used to further the objectives of censorship which I oppose.The
fundamental premise of Democracy is a free Press Media and Artists are
able to express their particular Art Form.To give in to this hijacking
of Democracy by the long arm of the Indian Ruling Party is wrong and
must be resisted by all lovers of the traditional values of the Western
Civilization.
fradford
> > ---
From: Hawk <hawk@multiboard.com>
I have an idea that I'd like to propose everyone on this list:
I've been thinking lately about our approach to getting 'The Way'
reinstated to syndication.
Many of us have been writing letters to our local affiliates and TPTB
at Studios USA and Pacific Reneassance Pictures. Most of these letters
are in the form of feedback. some have been rants, others very
emotional, and some very concise.
This small group of people I think were more successful because not
only were they very vocal, they seemed to have formed a sort of an
'official' organization, and they were apparently very organized.
I feel that we could/should do the same thing. It has been my
observation that we have many people on this list that have specific
talents and resources that might be very beneficial to all of us.
I would like to suggest that if we pool our resources collectively,
then we could perhaps carry more weight with TPTB.
Virginia Kelley came up with a good idea...if there are any Graphic
Artists among us, perhaps we could have these individuals work on an
officual graphic that we could use in all of our letters and'or faxes,
and/or E-Mails to S-USA.
Those among us that are members of the Gay and Lesbian community,
perhaps they could encourage their asociated support groups to
participate in our cause. The greater our support from official
organizations the greater the lilelyhood of S-USA taking us a little
more seriously than 'just a bunch of obsessed Fans'.
Those of us that have experience as political activists can use their
experience to help coach us all.
We have some great resources to draw on, such as Lisa Tserling, we have
Professor Ravi Palat, Technical advisor to Pac REnPics for the actual
episodes, who most likely would/will have Mr T's ear directly. If we
can get them in our corner as well, we'd have even more clout. Prof.
Palat has stated that we would be more than happy to do interviews.
Perhaps we should take him up on it and get his side of the story in an
official format.
Strength in numbers is a great asset that our opponents clearly do not
have. The petition is a great idea (even though someone beat me to it,
which is fine by me. :) ), and a valuable tool.
If we have any journalists or individuals in the media on the list,
perhaps they could utilize their resources to get the word out to the
rest of the media world about our ogranization...put a bug in their
boss' ear over a coffee at lunch or something of this nature. Contact
Mr. Taptert, if not through the normal media channels, perhaps we could
ask that Professor Palat contact him directly and tell them about our
organization. Perhaps if he/they were made aware of how many we are,
and how much we wish to help, then perhaps he/they could give us some
input on what we can do and/or provide us with some resources to help
them. Remind them that we the viewers, (to coin a phrase, their "target
audience") are on their side, and are willing to work with them for the
Greater Good.
If we have any indivuals that hail from India that did not find the
episode offensive, we could use their 'testimony' as Viewers to indicate
that the right-wing splinter group that started the whole mess, in fact
does does _not_ speak for all hindus world wide, as they so vocally
claimed they did.
Remember, this is not just about a pivotal episode of our beloved show
being pulled, (and apparently Mr. Tapert's favourite episode, no less),
it's about setting a dangerous precident where anyone can censor the
artistic world if they make enough noise about it, no matter how small
they are in number.
It'a also about homophobia under the guise of religion, something of
which I find personally abhorrant.
What does everyone think? Should we form some sort of 'official'
organization, or has everyone pretty much cooled off by now?
From: "Becky Calvert" <lostkiwi@worldnet.att.net>
Actually, the public apology Studios USA issued by proxy, using Mr. Tapert
and Renaissance Pictures as a shield, was just that--an apology and does
not represent a contract--oral or otherwise. If Studios USA wanted to
restore "The Way" to the syndication line up, they would simply have to
print a retraction. The retraction would state that they were sorry or
mistaken for the withdrawal of the episode. The retraction would have to be
bigger in size than the original document published, and circulated to more
people. The protesters would have to prove that this move would be
injurious to them to stop the reinstatement--at least that is how the law
reads in Texas (as closely as I can make out--I never took legalize in high
school).
Becky Calvert
Commander in Chief
SSPA/NBB
<http://www.nutbread.com>
>
14 Apr 1999
From: skywise@drizzle.com
Keep up the good work, Xenites. We're over 400 strong just on this mailing list.
For those of you just coming in, welcome! There are tons of good ideas here. I highly recommend going to http://www.onelist.com and checking around the List Center. You can read the archived messages from before you got here (lots of excellent points have been made, and sample letters abound), check out the bookmarks for web sites that people have posted to our list, or post messages from the Onelist web site.
(If you need help, email me at skywise@drizzle.com and I'll help you navigate the site.)
Battle on!
Kylee
From: "Catherine M. Wilson" <cmwilson@wildestdreams.org>
No one is saying that Hindus shouldn't protest if they
feel they or their gods have been misrepresented in the
media.
We are only saying that the answer to their being
offended is not the removal of the material that
offends them.
If everything that offended anybody were removed from
public view, there would be nothing left in the world
to look at.
Kit
From: "Sarah McKeithen" <xena200@excite.com>
*frown* I guess this is my sensitivity towards all
homosexuals that causes me to not be able to stress enough
on the fact that they were wrong, Wrong, WRONG to treat
homosexuality in that manner.
It's violating the freedom of speech and the god damned
right to be who you are!
I spose that if I were you, I'd mention the fact that they're
protesting this becuase it goes against what they believe in.
If this episode is taken off of the air, then it's going
against what WE believe in.
Nobody will be happy either way it goes.
However we did use their god, and it's not fair for us to
misuse it. So really, is it fair for us to ask for it to
continue to be on the air?
Just some of my musings... I don't know if I made much since,
but my thoughts have ME confused as hell.
Battle on!
Sarah
From: "Kym Taborn" <ktaborn@lightspeed.net>
Original message:
> From: i e <stand-in@juno.com>>
>
> Since Studios USA and Renaissance Pictures have already
> publicly, both in the media and press, made promises to pull
> the Xena: Warrior Princess episode, 'The Way,' from worldwide
> syndication, and furthermore, promised not to make any episodes
> dealing with Hindu characters in the future, this decision might
> be considered legally binding to those parties (the Hindu factions)
> that promises were made.
I dunno what kind of meds you are using, but there is no way that it could
be legally binding. We have this thing called precedent (aka common law)
and over time it was established that one had to have not only a meeting of
minds, but also have consideration for any and all contracts made. The best
that this represents is precatory and has no legal standing.
From: i e <stand-in@juno.com>
Since Studios USA and Renaissance Pictures have already
publicly, both in the media and press, made promises to pull
the Xena: Warrior Princess episode, 'The Way,' from worldwide
syndication, and furthermore, promised not to make any episodes
dealing with Hindu characters in the future, this decision might
be considered legally binding to those parties (the Hindu factions)
that promises were made.
Release from such a contract might be found:
#1. IF It could be shown that the protestors of 'The Way' belonged
to parties such as those listed in Dr. Palat's article (Violence against
Christians in India) are in actuality a minority faction and not the
voice of the entire 1 billion Hindus worldwide. This would make a
case for voiding the contract because of MISREPRESENTATION
on the protestors part.
#2. IF the Hindu factions involved in protests against 'The Way,'
made FALSE CLAIMS, in complaints stating that the portrayal of
religious characters such as Krishna and Hanuman would be
sacriligeous if set in a fictional story. Again, Professor Palant
has openly stated that there are hundreds of such fictionalized
tv and film portrayals produced and shown in India every year by
Indian tv and filmakers.
I hope this explains some things. For a major corporation,
Studios USA/Renaissance Pictures, to have publicly
apologized and made promises to those they believed were
representatives of one of the world's largest followed religions is
a promise that would NEVER be altered or changed unless given
sound legal reasons, two of those reasons being
MISREPRESENTATION and FALSE CLAIMS as stated above.
Stand-in
Hello,
I am a subscriber from the US, California. It isn't going to do us any good to protest from the local level on this. As much as a grass roots campaign works on many issues, the structure of syndicated TV broadcasts make that route rather futile. The best way I feel to deal with this issue is to work with Hindu groups who support freedom of speech and are not outraged by an innocent portrayal of Krishna, and Freedom of speech advocates in the US. GLAAD is a good one, but this goes beyond Gay issues. By the way that wasn't mentioned as an issue in the articles that I read. The religious group was protesting the portayal of their deities because they felt that they were portrayed in a disrespectful manner and misquoted, as well as putting the religion on the level of the ridiculous. To deal with one's "enemy", one must understand their motivation. Essentially they felt that their god was being treated as a cartoon rather than a religious figure. I agree we have every right to protest this, as they need to show tolerance, we need to show compassion. I am looking into other "freedom of Speech" organizations here. We all need to keep our heads about us and not let this become a conspiracy theory. One sect of the Hindu Faith had a very squeaky wheel and Universal Studios was trying to be fair to their sensitivities and heard them.
Above are symbols of great religions around the world. (Omitted) May we all live in Peace.
For those wondering, I did see the episode; the special effects were very good. The story line was a little weak...but all in all it was worth campaigning for. I guess the bottom line is as we unite we must do so in a way we can be respected for. Lesbians, Straights whoever we are (just in case you think I'm being too "subdued" I am a lesbian, and I do believe in what we are doing) a Calm, informed, approach will gain us more support than hysteria which I've seen the hint of through these e-mails.
I will post addresses of places to contact later today hopefully. United we will show that this is just one group that is becoming overly sensitive.
Xenites Unite!
Nameste (and Indian blessing, I felt was appropriate)
Bon
Boni L. Meredith Amethyst Arts: Fine Art and Graphic Design http://www.angelfire.com/biz2/AmethystArts
13 Apr 1999
From: simahoyo <simahoyo@blarg.net>
I just put up a page that can double as a flyer. If you don't live in
Seattleor the Pacific NW, just download, and changed the locations, and
local info. Be sure to check if your local afiliate did as KTZZ.
Simahoyo
http://www.blarg.net/~simahoyo/localfight.html
Just to mention something fimilar to what is going on with Xena that I saw on Sports Night this evening. One of the characters was upset about the fact that some religious fanatic threatened the studio because some show that is aired on the stationed depicted Jesus in a way that was not of his approval. He mentioned writing letters of protest against this ridiculous situation, kept blaming Jerry Falwell for creating such hysteria and asked why the guy could not just change the channel. Is this just coincidence? I hope not.
Sandra
--
God, please save me from your followers.
16 Apr 1999
From: Virginia V Kelly <vkellyian@compuserve.com>
Let's do it. I hope we haven't cooled off too much. We need to spend at
lease a few more weeks to a month on this. Remember, the folks who
protested this situation in the first place protested well over two months,
if I have the info. correct.
In the meantime, I've alerted a number of gay and lesbian mags in the U.S.
and have gotten an inquiry back from one so far.
Unfortunately, I'm not a graphic artist, but I can desktop publish and scan
with the best of 'em!
From: srasmuss@webtv.net (Sue Rasmussen)
I have been reading about the ideas tonight to spread this further
reaching more people who don't have computers.
Someone mentioned the sci-fi conventions. How about the xena and
Hercules conventions. The May convention in Orlando would be a good
place to spread the word about XAC.
Lang mey yer tum reek
From: KimyooFilm@aol.com
In a message dated 4/26/99 1:22:47 AM, you wrote:
<<I beg to differ with you. RenPics had no choice in the matter as to pulling
the episode, they didn't want to in the least. Furthermore, no one shouted
"Help!" at all. I'm sure you must have some idea how this business works,and
realize that the true ones interested in only the money aspect is the
distributors, in this case Studios USA. If they weren't interested in the
fans at all, there would be not much of a convention lineup, or even the
interest some of the staff has shown by going into chats as they have. As for
Rob Tapert not being a filmaker, not technically, but I'd like to point out
that he was highly involved in making of the Evil Dead films, as well as a
terrific director of several episodes of Xena (usually my favorites). His
hand is in every aspect of the shows. He's no mere producer, and believe me,
I've met plenty.
>>
I haven't been on in a while, but I'd like to point out that I have read more
about this and I agree that it does seem that Studios USA is the ultimate
culprit in the pulling of the episode. The whole reason why I started
watching Xena in the first place was because it was a Raimi production - I've
been a fan of his / theirs for years. I'm very familiar with the job of
producer, there are certain duties one must do that I absolutely abhor.
Because of this I know that it's not just the distributers that are concerned
with bringing in the money. RenPicts is Raimi's and Tapert's, therefore they
are heavily concerned with the income. If they don't produce a moneymaking
product for Studios USA, then they don't make money for their company to make
more products and more money, etc, etc. I would think that they have some
sort of say as to what happens to their product.
<<Another big disagreement there, too! There has never been such a gay
friendly
show...(with the exception of Ellen,but look what happened to that). Liz
Friedman is an out lesbian for crying out loud. I truly appreciate the winks
and nods the show has always made toward the gay audiences. FF&G had tons of
subtext in it.
True, Hollywood could definitely use some work in that dept., especially
considering so many that work in the industry are indeed gay. Everyone is
just afraid of alienating 'middle america' possibly, which boils down to
money. I am also well aware of a similar thing with how the industry treats
people with disabilities in the past, but things are improving there, too.
Disability activist have protested many films and shows as well, I don't
always agree. On this, I do think a counter protest was in order. I would
feel no different if it were a christian group that did this, I've seen some
do appalling attempts at censorship. The ones to target here is indeed the
distributors, not RenPics, not the Hindu group, naturally. Xenites have
learned a lot from our show, and letting our voices be heard in unison like
this, is a terrific thing to behold. >>
I adore the subtext. I live for it, in a manner of speaking. "Fins, Femmes,
and Gems" is one of my absolute favourite episodes ever. I just don't like
LL's comment in this week's TV Guide about it being a big joke. I realize it
wasn't intended at first, but it's a joke? A joke. Hmmm.............
It's all about Middle America and the green papers and clinky change in their
pockets. It's gonna take years to remove stereotypes. I'm relieved that
deleted scenes from Old Hollywood films made during the daysof the Hays
Office are being reinserted. Old Hollywood was just as "decadent" as New
Hollyweird. I was watching Turner Classic Movies the other night and they
were showing a documentary about film restoration. Hollyweird has hardly
changed -the watchdogs have, but the theme of the Legion of Decency is still
prevalent. Things are slowly progressing, but the key word is slowly.
I'm wonderfully stupified at the support shown here and I'm participating
too. I'm just scared of the "Xenalots" who are practically taking up arms to
defend their show. I don't have enough time to go through all the letters
here so I don't know who's a Xenite and who's a Xenalot. There are many who
would probably feel different about it if it were a more "local" effort. "If
the Hindus say it's wrong, THEY'RE wrong, but if Jerry Falwell says it's
wrong ,well then...it must be wrong."
<<Just my two dinars :)>>
And thank the Gods for it! =)
ROCk a little and Battle On!
Magenta
From: bookdaft <bookdaft@voyager.net>
Hi all,
I stopped today to pick up my comics and got into a discussion of "The
Way", Hindus/Indians and other things with my comic store manager. One
thing became clear: People don't really understand what the ban means. He
and I had been talking about it last week and he mentioned in our
conversation today that another customer, who had overheard our
conversation, told him that he had thought the episode would still come out
on video. We need to emphasize that not only will the episode not be aired
again, it won't ever be available (without significant rewriting) in any
medium.
My comic store guy, as rabid a freedom-of-choice and -speech fan as I am,
offered to host a petition in his store. It then occurred to me that we
are too narrow in focus if we stay only with the Internet. It is a great
means of communication, but not everyone has a computer. I have friends
who are computerless and, obviously, wireless.
Since I am behind in reading my e-mail, forgive me if this has already been
mentioned. I suggest to those of you who are comfortable doing it, to
contact either your local library or bookstore and ask if you can leave a
hard copy petition with them. You will probably have to explain the
situation to them and they may refuse, but both libraries and bookstores
strongly believe in the freedom of speech and choice and they would be most
likely to let you leave a petition with them.
I'm going to get permission from the website(s) that have the online
petition to use their wording, but I'll transfer it to paper and leave it
with my comic store guy. I'll also leave a couple of website URLs with him
for the petition and other resources we have available to us online. He is
located near Michigan State University and gets many of the students from
there. They should have access to the Internet and it would be natural for
them to check it out.
bd
From: "Catherine M. Wilson" <cmwilson@wildestdreams.org>
Hawk wrote:
> What does everyone think? Should we form some sort of 'official'
> organization, or has everyone pretty much cooled off by now?
I think we already *are* an organization. Not an official one, of
course, but in our diversity is our strength, in my opinion.
We are many different kinds of people with many different talents,
and we are pooling them via this list in order to achieve a
common goal. The trouble with organizing is that the organizing
itself takes up energy that could better be spent on doing our
part in the protest.
I think we can refer to Xenites Against Censorship without being
in any way 'official.' So we can have all the benefits of an
organization without the baggage.
It seems to me that each of us has managed to find a niche where
we can best use our own particular talents. I think we should
go on as we have been. Once the letters and e-mails have been
written, probably the best and easiest thing to do is get more
names on our petition, so that every week or so another fat
package will land on someone's desk.
;->
Kit
From: xenasis@yahoo.com
Greetings Fellow Xenites,
I like you have been appalled at the pulling of The Way and the censorship surrounding it. I have sent letters to my local station (from which I recieved a very nice letter in support of The Way) and to Studio USA.
I fear however that we are not making the waves needed to reinstate The Way. Each day that goes by with no rsponse from Studio Usa is a day we lose support and the chance to have this episode reinstated.
We must act fast my friends and make our voices heard.
To get Studio USA to pay attention we must hit them where it counts. The wallet. Until they realize how much we fans are responsible for the true success of their network we will have no chance.
We can contact the stockholders. Let them know that the folks that pay the way are unhappy about their decision. We can boycott the network for 24 hours to let them see how many of us there really are. I am open to other suggestions as well. I just know that we cannot lose this battle. It is too important.
Censorship in any Culture is appalling. The Studio was dupped by this group and they want to save face.
We simply have to make them see that we are willing to boycott as well. THIS IS NOT A CALL FOR VIOLENCE!
That would defeat everything Xenites stand for.
Xena stands for the little guy. Good against evil and folks a big evil has reared its head.
This show has done something no other show has. It has united those of different, races, ages, sexes, lifestyles, education and economic backgrounds. That is an impressive feat and not an easy one. I don't want to lose this.
I support Mr Tappert, Ren Pic and the staff and crew that worked on this episode. They created a show that stired my interest in the Hindu culture. That interest has waned in the insuing Controversy.
My final words to you. Fight for your rights. Not with violence but with your brains and other skills. My motto and that of my tribe members on the net is SHOW ME THE WAY!
USA Studios--- SHOW US THE WAY!
April
From: "MARTINE DE GRAUW" <dynamicone@hotmail.com>
Silea,
Very good idea. A friend of mine who lives in the Netherlands (and
I'm in Belgium) received the original episode from a USA friend.
She looked at it and asked why there is a protest anyhow! It seems
there is nothing wrong with the episode! Althoug some very hard
scenes regarding Gaby and Xena, but only a few! For the rest there
is much and good subtext in acting (we know already that Lucy and
Renée are great actresses). There is nothing else to protest too,
according to my friend.
So, please, write to those Hindu's. I can always support you if you
give me some addresses!
A belgian Xenite
Martine
From: "Silea Lawless" <sileakicksbutt@hotmail.com>
Hi Guys- listen, I've been thinking. We've been writing letters,
emails etc. to Channel Ten protesting the censorship, all of which
will probably have little effect, as Studios USA is the big boss.
However, perhaps, in order to give our argument some weight, as
someone suggested earlier (sorry, can't remember who :-) that we
should get the support of Hindu's who have seen or have heard about
this episode and don't have a problem with it. Undoubtably, Hindu's
in Australia would have been informed of the Hindu protest,
especially if they belong to Organisations. Why don't we start
writing to these Hindu organisations in Aus and see what they think?
After all, if we write to Ten and Studios USA, showing them that
(hopefully) the tide has turned in favour of the episode here in Aus,
it'll give our letters more weight. I know that the main problem we
have is that we haven't seen "The Way" yet, but it's worth a shot.
What do you think?
Silea
From: cjkruger@email.com
I just had a thought-believe it or not!!
What if the character of "krishna" was given another name.I mean if "they're" upset about the portrayal of krishna, why not just change the name.BUT I suppose they would find something wrong with that too.
I think the idea of combining all our efforts is an excellent idea.Let us know what we can do.
I would like to know though what Lucy and Renee think about all of this.Are they on our side or are they sitting on the fence watching.A interview or input from them to show their "appreciation" or any other feeling for that matter would be inspiring and at least show us and those we oppose that the people we're standing up for also believe in our cause.Do they even know about us? I'd alsolike to know why,if it was his favourite episode yet,Rob gave up so easily.It's one thing to apologise about it but to take it out completely makes me think he's not able to stand by his work.I hope that's not the case.Maybe a word from him to us.the people standing up for HIS creation wouldn't hurt.
How do we contact them?
I hope I have said everything.Thoughts pop into my head during the day and always when I'm away from a computer.
Anyhow,we need a list of what we can do and where to send protests and emails.So somebody create a
list and well list them.
From: xenasis@yahoo.com
Greetings Fellow Xenites,
I like you have been appalled at the pulling of The Way and the censorship surrounding it. I have sent letters to my local station (from which I recieved a very nice letter in support of The Way) and to Studio USA.
I fear however that we are not making the waves needed to reinstate The Way. Each day that goes by with no rsponse from Studio Usa is a day we lose support and the chance to have this episode reinstated.
We must act fast my friends and make our voices heard.
To get Studio USA to pay attention we must hit them where it counts. The wallet. Until they realize how much we fans are responsible for the true success of their network we will have no chance.
We can contact the stockholders. Let them know that the folks that pay the way are unhappy about their decision. We can boycott the network for 24 hours to let them see how many of us there really are. I am open to other suggestions as well. I just know that we cannot lose this battle. It is too important.
Censorship in any Culture is appalling. The Studio was dupped by this group and they want to save face.
We simply have to make them see that we are willing to boycott as well. THIS IS NOT A CALL FOR VIOLENCE!
That would defeat everything Xenites stand for.
Xena stands for the little guy. Good against evil and folks a big evil has reared its head.
This show has done something no other show has. It has united those of different, races, ages, sexes, lifestyles, education and economic backgrounds. That is an impressive feat and not an easy one. I don't want to lose this.
I support Mr Tappert, Ren Pic and the staff and crew that worked on this episode. They created a show that stired my interest in the Hindu culture. That interest has waned in the insuing Controversy.
My final words to you. Fight for your rights. Not with violence but with your brains and other skills. My motto and that of my tribe members on the net is SHOW ME THE WAY!
USA Studios--- SHOW US THE WAY!
April
From: Frankie Radford <fradford@yahoo.com>
### I think the WVA issue that 'The Way' insulted Krishna is a bit of
a political manoevering.Krishna is depicted in many Indian Movies in
conversaton with the lead character so in a sense all potrayals of
Krishna are fictional.I think the Producers depicted Krishna in a
sensitive and respectful manner and I am so surprised that Studios USA
pulled the episode.I think this sets a dangerous precedent and may be
used to further the objectives of censorship which I oppose.The
fundamental premise of Democracy is a free Press Media and Artists are
able to express their particular Art Form.To give in to this hijacking
of Democracy by the long arm of the Indian Ruling Party is wrong and
must be resisted by all lovers of the traditional values of the Western
Civilization.
fradford
From: Hawk <hawk@multiboard.com>
I have an idea that I'd like to propose everyone on this list:
I've been thinking lately about our approach to getting 'The Way'
reinstated to syndication.
Many of us have been writing letters to our local affiliates and TPTB
at Studios USA and Pacific Reneassance Pictures. Most of these letters
are in the form of feedback. some have been rants, others very
emotional, and some very concise.
This small group of people I think were more successful because not
only were they very vocal, they seemed to have formed a sort of an
'official' organization, and they were apparently very organized.
I feel that we could/should do the same thing. It has been my
observation that we have many people on this list that have specific
talents and resources that might be very beneficial to all of us.
I would like to suggest that if we pool our resources collectively,
then we could perhaps carry more weight with TPTB.
Virginia Kelley came up with a good idea...if there are any Graphic
Artists among us, perhaps we could have these individuals work on an
officual graphic that we could use in all of our letters and'or faxes,
and/or E-Mails to S-USA.
Those among us that are members of the Gay and Lesbian community,
perhaps they could encourage their asociated support groups to
participate in our cause. The greater our support from official
organizations the greater the lilelyhood of S-USA taking us a little
more seriously than 'just a bunch of obsessed Fans'.
Those of us that have experience as political activists can use their
experience to help coach us all.
We have some great resources to draw on, such as Lisa Tserling, we have
Professor Ravi Palat, Technical advisor to Pac REnPics for the actual
episodes, who most likely would/will have Mr T's ear directly. If we
can get them in our corner as well, we'd have even more clout. Prof.
Palat has stated that we would be more than happy to do interviews.
Perhaps we should take him up on it and get his side of the story in an
official format.
Strength in numbers is a great asset that our opponents clearly do not
have. The petition is a great idea (even though someone beat me to it,
which is fine by me. :) ), and a valuable tool.
If we have any journalists or individuals in the media on the list,
perhaps they could utilize their resources to get the word out to the
rest of the media world about our ogranization...put a bug in their
boss' ear over a coffee at lunch or something of this nature. Contact
Mr. Taptert, if not through the normal media channels, perhaps we could
ask that Professor Palat contact him directly and tell them about our
organization. Perhaps if he/they were made aware of how many we are,
and how much we wish to help, then perhaps he/they could give us some
input on what we can do and/or provide us with some resources to help
them. Remind them that we the viewers, (to coin a phrase, their "target
audience") are on their side, and are willing to work with them for the
Greater Good.
If we have any indivuals that hail from India that did not find the
episode offensive, we could use their 'testimony' as Viewers to indicate
that the right-wing splinter group that started the whole mess, in fact
does does _not_ speak for all hindus world wide, as they so vocally
claimed they did.
Remember, this is not just about a pivotal episode of our beloved show
being pulled, (and apparently Mr. Tapert's favourite episode, no less),
it's about setting a dangerous precident where anyone can censor the
artistic world if they make enough noise about it, no matter how small
they are in number.
It'a also about homophobia under the guise of religion, something of
which I find personally abhorrant.
What does everyone think? Should we form some sort of 'official'
organization, or has everyone pretty much cooled off by now?
From: "Becky Calvert" <lostkiwi@worldnet.att.net>
Actually, the public apology Studios USA issued by proxy, using Mr. Tapert
and Renaissance Pictures as a shield, was just that--an apology and does
not represent a contract--oral or otherwise. If Studios USA wanted to
restore "The Way" to the syndication line up, they would simply have to
print a retraction. The retraction would state that they were sorry or
mistaken for the withdrawal of the episode. The retraction would have to be
bigger in size than the original document published, and circulated to more
people. The protesters would have to prove that this move would be
injurious to them to stop the reinstatement--at least that is how the law
reads in Texas (as closely as I can make out--I never took legalize in high
school).
Becky Calvert
Commander in Chief
SSPA/NBB
<http://www.nutbread.com>
>
14 Apr 1999
From: skywise@drizzle.com
Keep up the good work, Xenites. We're over 400 strong just on this mailing list.
For those of you just coming in, welcome! There are tons of good ideas here. I highly recommend going to http://www.onelist.com and checking around the List Center. You can read the archived messages from before you got here (lots of excellent points have been made, and sample letters abound), check out the bookmarks for web sites that people have posted to our list, or post messages from the Onelist web site.
(If you need help, email me at skywise@drizzle.com and I'll help you navigate the site.)
Battle on!
Kylee
From: "Catherine M. Wilson" <cmwilson@wildestdreams.org>
No one is saying that Hindus shouldn't protest if they
feel they or their gods have been misrepresented in the
media.
We are only saying that the answer to their being
offended is not the removal of the material that
offends them.
If everything that offended anybody were removed from
public view, there would be nothing left in the world
to look at.
Kit
>
From: "Sarah McKeithen" <xena200@excite.com>
*frown* I guess this is my sensitivity towards all
homosexuals that causes me to not be able to stress enough
on the fact that they were wrong, Wrong, WRONG to treat
homosexuality in that manner.
It's violating the freedom of speech and the god damned
right to be who you are!
I spose that if I were you, I'd mention the fact that they're
protesting this becuase it goes against what they believe in.
If this episode is taken off of the air, then it's going
against what WE believe in.
Nobody will be happy either way it goes.
However we did use their god, and it's not fair for us to
misuse it. So really, is it fair for us to ask for it to
continue to be on the air?
Just some of my musings... I don't know if I made much since,
but my thoughts have ME confused as hell.
Battle on!
Sarah
From: "Kym Taborn" <ktaborn@lightspeed.net>
Original message:
> From: i e <stand-in@juno.com>>
>
> Since Studios USA and Renaissance Pictures have already
> publicly, both in the media and press, made promises to pull
> the Xena: Warrior Princess episode, 'The Way,' from worldwide
> syndication, and furthermore, promised not to make any episodes
> dealing with Hindu characters in the future, this decision might
> be considered legally binding to those parties (the Hindu factions)
> that promises were made.
I dunno what kind of meds you are using, but there is no way that it could
be legally binding. We have this thing called precedent (aka common law)
and over time it was established that one had to have not only a meeting of
minds, but also have consideration for any and all contracts made. The best
that this represents is precatory and has no legal standing.
From: i e <stand-in@juno.com>
Since Studios USA and Renaissance Pictures have already
publicly, both in the media and press, made promises to pull
the Xena: Warrior Princess episode, 'The Way,' from worldwide
syndication, and furthermore, promised not to make any episodes
dealing with Hindu characters in the future, this decision might
be considered legally binding to those parties (the Hindu factions)
that promises were made.
Release from such a contract might be found:
#1. IF It could be shown that the protestors of 'The Way' belonged
to parties such as those listed in Dr. Palat's article (Violence against
Christians in India) are in actuality a minority faction and not the
voice of the entire 1 billion Hindus worldwide. This would make a
case for voiding the contract because of MISREPRESENTATION
on the protestors part.
#2. IF the Hindu factions involved in protests against 'The Way,'
made FALSE CLAIMS, in complaints stating that the portrayal of
religious characters such as Krishna and Hanuman would be
sacriligeous if set in a fictional story. Again, Professor Palant
has openly stated that there are hundreds of such fictionalized
tv and film portrayals produced and shown in India every year by
Indian tv and filmakers.
I hope this explains some things. For a major corporation,
Studios USA/Renaissance Pictures, to have publicly
apologized and made promises to those they believed were
representatives of one of the world's largest followed religions is
a promise that would NEVER be altered or changed unless given
sound legal reasons, two of those reasons being
MISREPRESENTATION and FALSE CLAIMS as stated above.
Stand-in
Hello,
I am a subscriber from the US, California. It isn't going to do us any good to protest from the local level on this. As much as a grass roots campaign works on many issues, the structure of syndicated TV broadcasts make that route rather futile. The best way I feel to deal with this issue is to work with Hindu groups who support freedom of speech and are not outraged by an innocent portrayal of Krishna, and Freedom of speech advocates in the US. GLAAD is a good one, but this goes beyond Gay issues. By the way that wasn't mentioned as an issue in the articles that I read. The religious group was protesting the portayal of their deities because they felt that they were portrayed in a disrespectful manner and misquoted, as well as putting the religion on the level of the ridiculous. To deal with one's "enemy", one must understand their motivation. Essentially they felt that their god was being treated as a cartoon rather than a religious figure. I agree we have every right to protest this, as they need to show tolerance, we need to show compassion. I am looking into other "freedom of Speech" organizations here. We all need to keep our heads about us and not let this become a conspiracy theory. One sect of the Hindu Faith had a very squeaky wheel and Universal Studios was trying to be fair to their sensitivities and heard them.
Above are symbols of great religions around the world. (Omitted) May we all live in Peace.
For those wondering, I did see the episode; the special effects were very good. The story line was a little weak...but all in all it was worth campaigning for. I guess the bottom line is as we unite we must do so in a way we can be respected for. Lesbians, Straights whoever we are (just in case you think I'm being too "subdued" I am a lesbian, and I do believe in what we are doing) a Calm, informed, approach will gain us more support than hysteria which I've seen the hint of through these e-mails.
I will post addresses of places to contact later today hopefully. United we will show that this is just one group that is becoming overly sensitive.
Xenites Unite!
Nameste (and Indian blessing, I felt was appropriate)
Bon
Boni L. Meredith Amethyst Arts: Fine Art and Graphic Design http://www.angelfire.com/biz2/AmethystArts
13 Apr 1999
From: simahoyo <simahoyo@blarg.net>
I just put up a page that can double as a flyer. If you don't live in
Seattleor the Pacific NW, just download, and changed the locations, and
local info. Be sure to check if your local afiliate did as KTZZ.
Simahoyo
http://www.blarg.net/~simahoyo/localfight.html
Just to mention something fimilar to what is going on with Xena that I saw on Sports Night this evening. One of the characters was upset about the fact that some religious fanatic threatened the studio because some show that is aired on the stationed depicted Jesus in a way that was not of his approval. He mentioned writing letters of protest against this ridiculous situation, kept blaming Jerry Falwell for creating such hysteria and asked why the guy could not just change the channel. Is this just coincidence? I hope not.
Sandra
--
God, please save me from your followers.
From: TAMandraM@aol.com
In a message dated 4/11/99 7:59:48 PM, you wrote:
<<However, in this case, it seems to me that our "friends" at RenPics decided
to pull the episode, then shout, "Help! Help! We're being repressed!!"
This is obviously a move made by a producer. I wonder how it would have
worked out if this were Sam Raimi's baby and not Tapert's... Rob Tapert's
not a filmmaker, he's a producer, concerned not with the fans themselves,
just the dinars they bring in. (That was callous, wasn't it? True, but
callous.)>>
I beg to differ with you. RenPics had no choice in the matter as to pulling
the episode, they didn't want to in the least. Furthermore, no one shouted
"Help!" at all. I'm sure you must have some idea how this business works,and
realize that the true ones interested in only the money aspect is the
distributors, in this case Studios USA. If they weren't interested in the
fans at all, there would be not much of a convention lineup, or even the
interest some of the staff has shown by going into chats as they have. As for
Rob Tapert not being a filmaker, not technically, but I'd like to point out
that he was highly involved in making of the Evil Dead films, as well as a
terrific director of several episodes of Xena (usually my favorites). His
hand is in every aspect of the shows. He's no mere producer, and believe me,
I've met plenty.
<<I agree, TPTB don't fully respect the gay community. Hollywood never has.
Will they ever? Who knows. They're opening up a little more, but I'm afraid
that homosexuality has been relegated to unnecessary sidestories (i.e., THE
OTHER SISTER, wherein one of the sisters was a lesbian and a pain to their
mother - an unnecessary plot device to drum up more sympathy from the
primarily straight audience for Diane Keaton's character.)>>
Another big disagreement there, too! There has never been such a gay friendly
show...(with the exception of Ellen,but look what happened to that). Liz
Friedman is an out lesbian for crying out loud. I truly appreciate the winks
and nods the show has always made toward the gay audiences. FF&G had tons of
subtext in it.
True, Hollywood could definitely use some work in that dept., especially
considering so many that work in the industry are indeed gay. Everyone is
just afraid of alienating 'middle america' possibly, which boils down to
money. I am also well aware of a similar thing with how the industry treats
people with disabilities in the past, but things are improving there, too.
Disability activist have protested many films and shows as well, I don't
always agree. On this, I do think a counter protest was in order. I would
feel no different if it were a christian group that did this, I've seen some
do appalling attempts at censorship. The ones to target here is indeed the
distributors, not RenPics, not the Hindu group, naturally. Xenites have
learned a lot from our show, and letting our voices be heard in unison like
this, is a terrific thing to behold.
Just my two dinars :)
Tamandra
From: TAMandraM@aol.com
In a message dated 4/11/99 7:59:48 PM, you wrote:
<<However, in this case, it seems to me that our "friends" at RenPics decided
to pull the episode, then shout, "Help! Help! We're being repressed!!"
This is obviously a move made by a producer. I wonder how it would have
worked out if this were Sam Raimi's baby and not Tapert's... Rob Tapert's
not a filmmaker, he's a producer, concerned not with the fans themselves,
just the dinars they bring in. (That was callous, wasn't it? True, but
callous.)>>
I beg to differ with you. RenPics had no choice in the matter as to pulling
the episode, they didn't want to in the least. Furthermore, no one shouted
"Help!" at all. I'm sure you must have some idea how this business works,and
realize that the true ones interested in only the money aspect is the
distributors, in this case Studios USA. If they weren't interested in the
fans at all, there would be not much of a convention lineup, or even the
interest some of the staff has shown by going into chats as they have. As for
Rob Tapert not being a filmaker, not technically, but I'd like to point out
that he was highly involved in making of the Evil Dead films, as well as a
terrific director of several episodes of Xena (usually my favorites). His
hand is in every aspect of the shows. He's no mere producer, and believe me,
I've met plenty.
<<I agree, TPTB don't fully respect the gay community. Hollywood never has.
Will they ever? Who knows. They're opening up a little more, but I'm afraid
that homosexuality has been relegated to unnecessary sidestories (i.e., THE
OTHER SISTER, wherein one of the sisters was a lesbian and a pain to their
mother - an unnecessary plot device to drum up more sympathy from the
primarily straight audience for Diane Keaton's character.)>>
Another big disagreement there, too! There has never been such a gay friendly
show...(with the exception of Ellen,but look what happened to that). Liz
Friedman is an out lesbian for crying out loud. I truly appreciate the winks
and nods the show has always made toward the gay audiences. FF&G had tons of
subtext in it.
True, Hollywood could definitely use some work in that dept., especially
considering so many that work in the industry are indeed gay. Everyone is
just afraid of alienating 'middle america' possibly, which boils down to
money. I am also well aware of a similar thing with how the industry treats
people with disabilities in the past, but things are improving there, too.
Disability activist have protested many films and shows as well, I don't
always agree. On this, I do think a counter protest was in order. I would
feel no different if it were a christian group that did this, I've seen some
do appalling attempts at censorship. The ones to target here is indeed the
distributors, not RenPics, not the Hindu group, naturally. Xenites have
learned a lot from our show, and letting our voices be heard in unison like
this, is a terrific thing to behold.
Just my two dinars :)
Tamandra
12 Apr 1999
From: Terri Parkinson <tparkinson@masterpack.com.au>
Hi,
I haven't yet caught up on all my mail so I'm not sure if anyone has
asked/answered this but I was wondering if anyone knew of any Freedom of
Speech Watchdog type of groups or Politicians in Australia and/or the US
that we could drag into this. I feel that this has gone far beyond one
episode of one television show and that every time these freedoms are
compromised - even a tiny bit - we all suffer in the end. I was hoping to
write to Australian politicians and groups. Didn't we have a political
party or two at the last election who's platform was this very issue ? Who
was it that went to bat (in Australia) for that Lollita movie ? Maybe we
could contact them.
I'm sure that the US has heaps of groups the same. I was hoping to copy
them to correspondence seeing this problem has originated in the US - The
"Birthplace" Of Freedom of Speech and Religion.
Any idea's, thoughts, comments ?
Terri
From: "Jim Shaffer, Jr." <jshaffer@csrlink.net>
>If you really want to battle censorship, perhaps you should refocus on the
>source of the material, Renaissance Pictures themselves, not a religious
>group, not the affiliates.
Absolutely. They surrendered to fascists who couldn't possibly have harmed
them. (However, it may have been Studios USA rather than RenPics.) Regardless,
the protesters should've been allowed to carry on and make fools of themselves,
and Xena and the rest of the world should've gone on as usual.
Nobody can prove the objective, external validity of Hinduism, much less the
Krishna cult's distorted version of it, any more than they can prove the
validity of any other religion. And, for example, I didn't see anyone
neo-pagans mounting a global protest of the mis-portrayal of Cernunnos as
evil -- he was even made to physically look like Satan -- in the Hercules
druidic episodes (they screwed up the rest of Druidism too, inasmuch as anyone
knows anything about it), nor any Thelemites protesting the mis-use of the
dictum, "Do what thou Wilt shall be the whole of the Law", to promote fascism,
rather than enlightened anarchy as intended by Crowley, by Dahak in Hercules.
And these are groups which *have* been slandered and even physically attacked
even in these enlightened times, not some religion with millions of followers
and thousands of years of continuous existence!
>It seems that most of the censorship actually
>comes from within - a different case in point, "Fins, Femmes and Gems."
>(Originally a coming out episode, they made changes so as to not upset the
>straight audience.)
I'm afraid I've got to disagree there. If I remember rightly, someone else on
the staff explained that Josh Becker was speaking unofficially and erroneously
when he made the "coming out" comment. What was *really* originally planned was
for Gabrielle to have a crush on Xena under Aphrodite's love spell, but they
changed it because that would imply that they *weren't* in love when *not*
enchanted, and they didn't want to definitively state that because it would
disillusion the gay fans. This was a smart move, and fits perfectly with
Tapert's disclaimer that they were giving in to the mythological argument and
*not* the anti-gay argument of the protesters. It also hints, as others have
suggested, that the decision wasn't Tapert's to make -- and you will note that
his name wasn't on the original press release about the pulling of the episode.
(In this vein, I am also surprised that Liz Friedmann hasn't been heard from!)
Finally, I will point out that when I first started taking note of the gay
subtext in Xena, the closest thing to an "official" explanation that I could
find at that time was that Renaissance wanted it to be a gay-positive series and
Universal didn't, so they had to make the references subtle so as to not have
them removed.
11 Apr 1999
From: "MaryD" <kira@zip.com.au>
On 10 Apr 99, at 16:00, Becky Calvert wrote:
> YES!!!!!!!
> A small piece from TVGuide Online!!!!
> Thanks to AresGodofWar-1@webtv.net (JD) for the "Heads Up"!!!!
>
>
> XENA FANS FIGHT BACK: A loyal cadre of Xena fans is protesting the
> show's decision to censor an episode that trivializes
> certain Hindu deities.
> The fans say it's wrong for the show to give into
> religious groups' demands.
<g> Alright! We're mad and we're not going to take it...hell hath no
fury like Xenites scored or something like that :-)
--
MaryD
kira@zip.com.au
From: Denice Walker <Denice.Walker@colorado.edu>
Hello all!
I wish I had the time to follow up and respond to all the postings.
As it turns out, I'm a graduate student in religious studies at the
University of Colorado, Boulder. Yeah, you read it right, *religious
studies*! It also just so happens that I'm up to my eyeballs preparing a
paper I'm scheduled to present at a conference this Friday...on our
favorite show: Xena! Yup, I'm gonna talk about religion and Xena. By
another interesting coincidence, I'm also currently enrolled in a class
on...Hindu Devotionalism. And yes, I'm going to present a paper in that
class on Xena and the show's India arc. Of course, I'll be discussing the
reactions to "The Way."
Before I get into my comments on the latest turn of events, can
anyone send, or tell me where I can find, addresses (email or snail mail)
to StudiosUSA and/or other folks who should receive a letter of protest?
Thanks much in advance. Now, on to my take on things, FWIW:
I can hardly call myself an expert on Hinduism, but I can say that
from my perspective The Way handled its treatment of Krishna, and Hinduism
more generally, in a very sensitive, respectful and appropriate manner. I
also suspect that the source of the protest has less to do with the show's
treatment of Krishna and more to do with the lesbian issue. It is true that
there are among Hindus those who find only one interpretation and
representation of Lord Krishna to be acceptable. For this group (and I
cannot begin to speak to how large a group they are within India and the
Hindu diaspora), alternate representations of Krishna, even by other
Hindus, is unacceptable. Needless to say, these same folks would find
anything that even hints at an acceptance of homosexuality, and perhaps
lesbianism especially, offensive. Most important, however, is the fact that
this view on Krishna does *not* represent a view held universally among all
Hindus. (Of course, by the same token, Pat Robertson's views on
Christianity do not represent all American's views on Christianity, either.
Thus, you get my point.)
Given my understanding of the issues involved, I am especially
appalled at StudiosUSA's decision to pull the episode out of syndication.
While I don't usually find myself agreeing with conservative Christians, I
did notice a post the other day, on another Xena mailing list, that
suggested that if this protest had been lodged by a conservative Christian
group, it would not have recieved the response that this protest has. I'm
inclined to agree and would love to know what has motivated StudiosUSA. I
would never have attributed such consumer power to Hindus, either here in
the United States or around the world. Clearly, I'm ignorant on this
issue...?
Well, thanks all for reading (assuming you're still with me :-).
And if you can post those addresses, I'm be ever so grateful.
Thanks,
Denice Walker (aka grania)
From: KimyooFilm@aol.com
This is a letter I sent to another mailing list I'm on (with a few changes,
off course...) I haven't had a lot of time lately to read everything that's
come into my
mailbox, much less respond. Too much "Real Life" and all that jazz.
IMO, this controversy/debacle/support magnet (whatever you want to call it),
is rather pointless in terms of calling it censorship. I'm against
censorship, and I'm against a group of people trying to decide for me, a
twenty year old woman, what I can and cannot watch. They are two separate
things, however: censorship and protesting/demonstrating.
Censorship is government-enacted and wrong. Demonstration is a group getting
together to show their concern and dislike of something. Even though we may
not agree with what they say, they have the right to say it. If their
actions have an effect, more power to them. We have the right to
counter-demonstrate...not to out and out hate "them" for exercising their
rights.
However, in this case, it seems to me that our "friends" at RenPics decided
to pull the episode, then shout, "Help! Help! We're being repressed!!"
This is obviously a move made by a producer. I wonder how it would have
worked out if this were Sam Raimi's baby and not Tapert's... Rob Tapert's
not a filmmaker, he's a producer, concerned not with the fans themselves,
just the dinars they bring in. (That was callous, wasn't it? True, but
callous.)
If you really want to battle censorship, perhaps you should refocus on the
source of the material, Renaissance Pictures themselves, not a religious
group, not the affiliates. It seems that most of the censorship actually
comes from within - a different case in point, "Fins, Femmes and Gems."
(Originally a coming out episode, they made changes so as to not upset the
straight audience.)
I agree, TPTB don't fully respect the gay community. Hollywood never has.
Will they ever? Who knows. They're opening up a little more, but I'm afraid
that homosexuality has been relegated to unnecessary sidestories (i.e., THE
OTHER SISTER, wherein one of the sisters was a lesbian and a pain to their
mother - an unnecessary plot device to drum up more sympathy from the
primarily straight audience for Diane Keaton's character.)
Why now have the Hindus attacked XENA? I know why. It's because their
religion was a main focus for an arc and will be repeatedly referenced in
following episodes, possibly until the end of the show's run. (Gabrielle's
mendhi and her yoga, should Xena ever call on Krishna again...) The Hindus
involved were merely regurgitating opinions they heard about the show from
outside sources and were upset way before the episode was even aired. They
were upset at the possible lesbian connection between the two stars, an
opinion that should be based wholly on the viewer's personal POV, not by peer
pressure.
Should Jesus (or Buddah or any other "major deity") have more than a passing
mention on the our show, with two possibly lesbian characters, then I think
the Reverend Donald Wildmons and Jerry Falwells of the world will come out of
the wood works and protest and do what they usually do to get something they
don't like taken off the air. Since Christianity / Catholicism are religions
so close to most of us, how would we feel then? Then it's not some foreign
thing, it's close to home and filled with irony, paradoxes and hate that
we're all aware of.
I would like to point out that Adam had a wife...named Lilith. She came
before Eve. She was his equal and was cast out of Eden when they got into an
argument about who would be on top. Yadda, yadda, she eventually became a
succubus. This is in Jewish folklore, why not Christian? It's not in
Christian folklore because of all the filters the Bible has gone through
throughout the years where we now have the King James version of the Bible,
berift of women being strong and smart and independent...like our Gabrielle
and Xena.
Just my opinion....
Wow...I've said a lot..........I'll get off my soapbox now... =)
ROCk a little and Battle On!
Lori, a.k.a Magenta, czarina and dictator for life of Kimyoo Films
10 Apr 1999
From: Lucy Tan <lucy.tan@iapso.org>
hmm... I don't live in the US, and I haven't had the time to check the
'protest' sites and such,
but I am surprised with your comments here. I kinda had the impression that
XAC is very strong,
and that the 'tide' is turning in our favor. I think anyone with a little
brains in them can see that
the 'cult' is really in the wrong, and eventually, I think Studios USA will
realize that HELLO?! it
is not just Xenites who think the removal of 'The Way' from future
broadcasts is unfair and
unnecessary, but also sane, logical Hindus. We are merely an example of a
very important issue,
which you have already mentioned (the control of media by extremist groups).
It is a simple, yet
devastating instrument of tyranny. First, they dictate what we should not
watch, next thing you
know, they'll be dictating what we SHOULD watch.
Don't lose hope!!!
Lucy
From: "D W" <darkworrior@chickmail.com>
On Fri, 9 Apr 1999 13:28:52 Arianne Barreto Camacho wrote:
>Here is an advice...
>Because RenPics HAS apologized several times, Xenites DO want to see "THE WAY" again, and Hinus DON'T want it to be run again, Why doesn't RenPics put like a statement before the episode run, saying that the so called "loving" god Krishna is NOT used as a fictional character and something like that.
>
>I know it is not as simple as this, but this will let know the world that Hindus were offended, RenPics would be apologizing (again), plus Xenites will get to see the episode again, :)
>
Hi Arianne!
That's a great idea, and one that I wish would happen if it was the only way to get "The Way" back on the air.
But I just don't think that these radicalists have much of an agenda except to force their opinions on the non-Hindu world. After reading several public statements available on the net today, by the people associated with these groups, I'm seeing how painfully narrowminded and hypocritical they are. The group(s) that harassed Studios USA into recalling the episode have been called by many, including Hindus, the press, and Xenites who've done their homework, "cultist", "radical", "right-wing", "ambitious", among other words. The groups that attacked Studios USA *are* splinter groups from larger, organized relgions (Hindu) with a very very devout following. I used to giggle at the funny bald guys in orange robes chanting and dancing at the airport, but now I don't think they're so funny.
Roughly, they might be the equivalent of the American Jerry Falwell, the millionaire evangelist most recently noted as making a public statement calling Tinky Winky, the purple Teletubby, gay and threatening to pull strings to have the show pulled off the air; and Fred Phelps, the midwestern American preacher who promotes *extreme* (and I do mean extreme in the most hideous sense) violence against homosexuals, Jews, and non-Christians in general. Blah. These people are idiots.
Now that a precedent has been set, where such an extremist "bully" group has gotten away with murder, I'm wondering when folks like Fred Phelps, Neo Nazis, KKK, etc., *will* step up to the plate and badger Studios USA, or anybody else, into acquiescing to their terms, simply because now they can say, "But they did it! Why can't we?"
I'm sure the matter is closed now - honestly, I think the best we can hope for is to be acknowledged by Studios USA, get some publicity, and get "The Way" in the Season IV tapes package (doubtful), but to re-air it would simply get these militant, racist, misogynist, homophobic groups riled up again, and they'd cause 20 times the trouble as before - and that's not a good thing. Nonetheless I'm still emailing people (politely) to ask them to consider the core of the issue at hand (GLAAD, ACLU, NOW, PFAW, etc.), and I'm still doing what I can to get it into the news that these religious groups are now not the only ones protesting.
Cheers,
~DW
http://www.angelfire.com/ar/beogodeo
---
From: La Sainte <pleau@earthlink.net>
D W wrote:
> From: "D W" <darkworrior@chickmail.com>
>
> They already are dictating what we should watch - simply by forcing an act of omission. My feelings? It was a business decision I feel is firmly rooted in politics - and not for one moment do I feel that Studios USA would make amends quick enough to set the Hare Krishnas on their collective ear as fast as was done to them.
>
> Studios USA is a small portion of a very large Hollywood conglomerate, and by releasing press statments in Hollywood's key trade newspapers, they have signified their concession is final and from that, people in Hollywood have taken it as a signal as to be painted with a wide brush, to 'watch out' before portraying a single Hindu in tv or film. How sad!
I think you're onto something. I have been very bewildered that the Hare Krishna protest was so effective, that Studios USA caved in so quickly.
I have a theory. About a year and a half ago Universal Studios was sold. I don't recall to which conglomerate, but I do know that it was owned by Seagram's (as in Seagram's 7) until the sale was made. At that time I was concerned with the possibility of the new owners' being more conservative in their outlook than Seagram's. From what we have been able to glean from all of this is that either USA Studios (a subsidiary I never heard of until their logo began to appear this season) is so new
that their staff, including their executives, do not have a lot of experience in the business. Remember, Hollywood is very youth oriented. It is very possible that the people at USA Studios, because of their inexperience, panicked when threats were made by what they thought were the views of one billion people. If that is the case it is obvious they never bothered to research as to who these people were who were protesting and/or contacted other Hindu organizations to get their views on the
ep.
The second possibility is far more cynical. If the new owners of Universal are more conservative, then the chances are great that Universal and RenPic have been at loggerheads for the past year and a half. If that is the case then the Hare Krishna protest became a means to get RenPic in line with Universal's views. From what I understand RenPic will be losing millions because of the pulling of "The Way." Universal should lose less or perhaps nothing by this act. They are merely the
distributors and, I believe, are not contract-bound to distribute anything that would be deemed offensive.
Again, I am merely speculating. These are not facts, except the info about Universal's changing corporate hands 1-1/2 years ago.
In any case the buck stops at Studios USA. They were the ones who pulled the ep, so they are the ones responsible. We also need to put a lot of pressure on the Hare Krishna groups. We need to make it clear that they will have great difficulty making a living off the mainstream population because of their role in this censorship.
La Sainte
From: simahoyo <simahoyo@blarg.net>
D W wrote:
The most
> alarming thing about Xena, therefore, is
> that she has an appeal among women and
> feminists who worship the virtues they
> like to see while cannibalizing the world
> cultures, making a mockery of juxtaposed
> symbols and images that might mean
> something to some people around the
> world.
>
> In such a world, Krishna appears in the
> latest episodes in one of his new, hybrid
> incarnations. He looks more like an
> exotic god who has been travelling around
> the world rather than one who emerged in
> native imagination. What matters here is
> that those who worship the show believe
> that Xena is such a forceful and
> entertaining role model that her cultural
> appropriations are to be overlooked.
>
> All of this makes sense, though, because
> for feminists and the rest of us, this is
> a fantasy, another in line of many; a
> fantasy of the Western white culture that
> packages exoticness, wrapping it up in
> single selective attributes. Who really
> cares if we cannibalize the world in the
> name of this entertainment?
Okay, Xenites of Color (I REALLY hate that term), time to make sure
we identify ourselves in *every* letter and email. Tell how the writers
of XWP have worked to help the Dominant culture understand us by subtly
skewering movies like the old, "Fort" movies (The Price) and resqueing
kidnapped white kids from the savages movies (Daughter of Pomera). We
might mention that Cleopatra was shown to be Black, that Ceprops, a
pivotal character who found his heart again after being trapped for
millenia, was played by a black actor, and that Xena's lover, Marcus,
was also played by a black actor. Oh, and Helen of Troy was protrayed by
a Maori actress. The series has drawn fire for doing this, so we might
as well support them for it.
Simahoyo
PS, if anybody is a bit less angry, and able to make the statement we
need in a more rational manner, please email me privately.
From: "D W" <darkworrior@chickmail.com>
They already are dictating what we should watch - simply by forcing an act of omission. My feelings? It was a business decision I feel is firmly rooted in politics - and not for one moment do I feel that Studios USA would make amends quick enough to set the Hare Krishnas on their collective ear as fast as was done to them.
Studios USA is a small portion of a very large Hollywood conglomerate, and by releasing press statments in Hollywood's key trade newspapers, they have signified their concession is final and from that, people in Hollywood have taken it as a signal as to be painted with a wide brush, to 'watch out' before portraying a single Hindu in tv or film. How sad!
Who's next, "The Simpsons"' 'Apu' character?
It's simply almost impossible to say how we got from point A to point B so quickly. There are extremist groups that protest RenPic, USA Network, Studios USA, Universal, and Disney, everday in droves, who don't get this kind of success in a month and a half, if at all.
XAC is very strong - and growing, and I think everyone (including me) is ready to see some headlines that say "Xenites protest" instead of "Hindu groups protest". The only way to that end is to keep letting others know outside our fanbase what the heck has been going on, and that we want it stopped, and that the issue in itself although it sprung from Xena, is related to the basic value of freedom of expression and that everyone should take heed on the events that have transpired here.
Personally, I will hope for Studios USA to issue a statement, acknowledge us, and offer their regrets. Hoping for that is someplace to -start-.
Legally, I think the matter is out of our hands - Studios USA will have to handle themselves, and the WVA, ISCKON, or whoever else, with their lawyers.
But I haven't lost hope for anything - quite the contrary. Censorship, especially like this, is a giant slap in the face, and it makes you think twice just about the basic freedoms you enjoy.
Cheers,
DW
Return to the Top
From: "Dave White" <Dave@renee-oconnor.freeserve.co.uk>
Hi Catherine,
I Agree, it's just been completely blown out of proportion by the minority
involved, I read most were not even local that bombarded the stations to
remove the show.
Every point you made is absolutely true! Xena would want to save Gabby,
they've been best friends since the show began and are by rights family at
least by friendship!
Do you know what's making me think though... Even through all of this, I
believe in God and see myself a christian but... what's making me think and
it's quite funny to some respects we all have our beliefs and everything but
not one of us all can truely prove them 100% true.. in general terms it's
quite crazy isn't it...... And surely there should be some leway in there
somewhere...
Especially for the Arts, as you said if people don't like what they are
watching why can't they just switch the channel over! why spoil it for the
rest of us who could get 40 minutes of enjoyment from one of our favourite
shows!
Battle on Everyone! it's for a good cause!
Dave
9 Apr 1999
From: "ATTorXenafan the Warrior" <attorxenafan@hotmail.com>
Well, I just joined to this list today,but anyways,here is a complete
version of my protest message (note : it`s written in "The Hindu Kids
Universe" guestbook. I went into that site accidentally and saw that
others has crossed the same topic,so I wrote my own opinion.) :
Name
Antti Taimisto AKA ATTorXenafan
Date
12:05:05 4/09/99
Email
attorxenafan@hotmail.com
Location
Oulu
Country
Finland
Homepage
http://members.spree.com/sip/attorxenafan/index.html
Comment :
OK.
I would,and I will say that this censoring is completely wrong. "The
Way" cannot be judged in any way UNLESS
1) Every fan who wants to see it in any country of the world has seen
it. How could I say anything if I won`t see it because of censoring?
2) Also other people than Hindus have said their opinion of this
problem. You know,there`s many,many other religions in the world.
I,myself,am a Christian, and I see no reason in this censoring.
3) This problem is considered among with the world-wide fans.
And,if I got it right from the fans, "The Way" has already been seen
in USA,right? So why`s up? They`ve seen it,they`ve taped it,and they
send it to their foreign friends if requested & paid of the tapes. So
no use in this censoring.
This is just my opinion.And if this "please do not use profane
language in the guestbook" note wouldn`t have been here,this little
note of mine would be....HIGHLY profane.
But,just think about it: How can one denomination judge this episode
of
"Xena : Warrior Princess" which is a fictious show?
And,while it is fictious,it cannot "promote" homosexual
relationships,as said
in the letter I read.
Sorry,but I just HAVE to add this line :
**** up the h****s!
OK,if ya want censoring,here it came!
tip to the producers : Just change Lord Khrishna to moon goddess or
something..no names,no censors!
----->
So,as you may notice,I am on yer side! (so I don`t need to be
chakrumed or anything...wow..no arrows flying in the air yet...)
:o)
~ATTorXenafan,Webmaster@Home of Heroes
http://members.spree.com/sip/attorxenafan/index.html
From: "Solari 02" <stargazer_10@hotmail.com>
Dear fellow Xenites,
I would like to thank you all as a fellow xenite. I am very inspired
by the will and devotion you all show in combating the protest. I
would also like to thank Dan Ma for setting up the XAC mailing list
and being a driving force, as well as the devoted emailers out there
(you know who you are) that have stayed possitive and haven't let the
crazyness off this all beat you down. You all deserve a round of
applause for your articulate writing and sense of what's right as well
by expressing it with passion.
BATTLE ON, DON'T GIVE IN AND SPREAD THE WORD!!!
Loveingly signed,
Helen R.
From: Judi Mair <jmair@ais.net>
I was just wondering if we have any attorneys on this list? Is there
anyway we could take legal action concerning the pulling of this
episode? In this sue happy country there has to be a way to do
this...not necessarily to win but just to bring attention to the
censorship...bet all those media shows we are trying to attract might
take an interest in fandom suing to protect their show... like some kind
of class action suit???
just wondering
--
Judi
jmair@ais.net
From: cjkruger@email.com
This whole story is quite pathetic.
I come from South Africa, a country filled with hate, violence and revenge.Watching Xena has given me strength to believe in love,understanding but most importantly respect.The show is set in ancient times for crying out loud.It's based on "God's from past times" now don't we hear of any complaints from Christian groups.NO! why, because 1)we know this is tv 2}christians [in most part]respect the right of the individual to decide for themselves 3}We Believe in our beliefs and know God let's us be who we are.
Now I always thought the basis for most religions was love so why wouldn't Krishna want to help Xena save Gabrielle, keeping in mind that no where along the line has there ever been a "coming out"so to speak by the characters and even the actors themselves have denied that the characters are in fact lesbian.
SO the question arises- what makes a person gay or lesbian?OKAY so the 2 hang out alot.How many people don't hang out with the same sex.Does that make us all gay/les. for the time we spend together?GET REAL....
They have a FRIENDSHIP I can only dream of.To depend on someone,to have the respect they have for each other and how many of us need someone to love us for who we are.
Maybe the protesters should go to the beginning of the show to see why Xena would want to save Gabrielle.
Now whoever doesn't want to be offended there is a button on the tv-it's called an on/off switch, USE IT.Let those of us who enjoy the show watch it in peace and decide for ourselves.
Angered Xenite
Catherine Kruger
7 Apr 1999
To: XAC@onelist.com
From: ranlauren <ranlaure@corplink.com.au>
Lynne,
I am thinking that it is necessary we garner support from Civil Liberties,
Gay, Lesbian and Bisexual and Human Rights organisations. The numbers thing
is okay, but a sophisticated protest would involve organisations. We should
give the guys at Renpic a chance to agree with a reasoned statement disavowing
support for the homophobic agenda of the fundamentalists.
As an Australian, I must tell you that the image of American democracy has
sunk further. People have the equal right to not practice religion. Everyone
has the right not to have religious rule applied to them without their
consent.
Renpic in my view ought not to have withdrawn these episodes so easily, so
compliantly, and everywhere. It presents a very craven picture- if they
collapse so easily, democracy over there is a joke.
As every child, parent and teacher knows, it is possible to withdraw and
apologise in such a way as to adhere to the letter but not the spirit of the
apology. This should have been done.
I suppose the laws you have over there vastly oversupport religious, and tha
it would have been futile to resist. Make no mistake, this is the impression
I have of the United States.
Ruth Lawrence
>
From: Diana Kunkel <maritco@erols.com>
RenPics has issued an apology regarding the depiction of Krishna as
fictional, while refusing to address the homophobic part of the dispute
(see Rob Tapert's letter earlier and on several websites).
However, it is my understanding that RenPics did not want to pull the
episode...that is coming from USA Studios as a result of affiliate
concerns.
That's why this mailing list -- to get us to pester all the affiliates
and turn this around!
Let's keep our focus on the right target and not go off on tangents that
don't support our goals.
Respectfully,
Diana Kunkel
From: HStraub <hstraub@dillingen.baynet.de>
Hi all,
I'm from Germany and I'm very disappointed that the German viewers won't get
to see this ep here.
Luckily I had the chance to see it thanks to a special American friend but
it's a shame that a minority of people decide what we can watch and what
not. I don't think that Krishna was portrayed in an offensive way but since
I'm not Hindu I don't know. But stating the reason that Xena wanted to help
her lesbian lover and say that this is wrong is just discriminating and
homophobic. Besides there was never an episode which indicated that they are
really lovers... that's why it is called subtext.
I'm fascinated by the unity of Xenites all around the world and I'm very
proud to be a part of it.
Battle On
Heike (Ty)
From: DYNAMICONE@hotmail.com
I just don't know why Ren.Pics. took the decision to take THE WAY out of the production and air.
First we will miss a very important part in the whole show. It will be very difficult to link the rest of the episodes to eachother as this particular eps is the spill to the futur season.
Secondly, every production every made in the past has always have critics like this one. No show ever produced was free of critics.
I can understand the Hindu community, but be reasonable. Like this every small community group can come out now! For instance, those who are against violence, those who are against feminisme, those who have problems with homo's and lesbians,etc........ You can keep on going.
And we, well, we can react as being hurt in our being free! Yes, ofcourse, beside the Hindus, we all do feel hurted in our freedom!
Entertainment, no matter on which level, is for everybody and nobody can demand the other party to decline. We have to respect everybodies choice. And the Xenashow does respect everybodies choice. There is entertainment and satisfaction for every person on the whole earth.
So, don't let this minor group get to us! Cause this is really rediculous!
When the episode THE WAY will never be broadcasted it will sure be the base of the end of the Xena show. That's for sure! There will always be a black curtain over this show. We may not allow this to happen on this highleveled show ever made.
Whenever the show ends there must be a heaven of proud above it.
This is my way to say! THE WAY must be a part of the show and must be reruned whenever it has to be!
Martine
From: "Adrienne Howard" <ahoward@pps.k12.or.us>
I want to know why an organization with a name like "American Hindus Against
Defamation" (AHAD) are perpetuating this campaign of slander and
intolerance. Kinda ironic, ain't it? I wonder why its OK that they can
single out a group of people to attack?
Since "They" have decided for the world what we cannot see, maybe we should
focus some of our efforts into getting this episode seen. I have already
sent one copy of "the Way" to someone in Quebec (hang in there
Marie-Helene.. its coming!!), so maybe it is up to the lucky Xenites who
have this episode on tape to perpetuate a global tape ring of sorts. There
are ways of getting VHS format into the other types of video tape formats
that different parts of the world require. So while American Xenites are
mailing their letters of protest and support, they can be mailing a tape or
two to some unfortunate Xenite that is really getting rooked by this mess.
And maybe while you are writing your letters of support to Rob and RenPic,
you could suggest releasing "The Way" in some sort of video. And I'm not
talking about in the sets that you can order from GetXena.com. I would
think it would be harder for AHAD and other organizations to hinder the
releasing of the episode on video. If they can, then our civil rights are
in even more jeopardy then I thought. :P
Thank you for reading through my rambling.
Adrienne
Portland, Oregon
From: simahoyo <simahoyo@blarg.net>
Pat wrote:
>
> From: Pat <voyager@dsuper.net>
>
> The ep has never been shown in Montreal, Global tv's decision, lucky for me
> someone was able to make me a tape... Didn't find anything offensive in it, but
> I'm not hindu. This ep, however, had some violent scenes, and that the reason
> Global invoked for removing it (Xena is shown here at 4pm on Saturday afternoon),
> but somehow I have problems believing that was the real reason. I've seen eps way
> more violent than this (just thinking of Borias' death, for example). I think
> they saw that coming and under the building pressure, slightly ahead of RenPic,
> they chickened out. :o( That's sad...
>
> I think people, whoever they are, whatever religion they believe, should be able
> to take a tv show for what it is: a tv show! It's called creativity... And
> Freedom of Speech is --or I thought it was-- a fundamental right in our part of
> the world. Looks like it's not so true. Too bad. *sigh*
>
> Taking "The Way" off the air is sad, not only for us Xenite, but for all the art
> industry and all of us who'd like to speak freely. And for all of us who are
> adult enough to choose what to watch and what to believe in without having
> choices made for us! Is it me or is sometimes our society going backward?
>
> Now, being practical with the storyline, how are they explain the disappearance
> of Gab's staff to those who haven't seen it??!.. "Oh... 't was in THAT ep, ya
> know..." Yeah...it's very very sad...
>
> Pat
> Battle on! (more than ever!)
6 Apr 1999
From: "trish shields" <trish_shields@bc.sympatico.ca>
The only thing l objected to in this ep, The Way, was the violence. My kids
were not allowed to watch it first run. I waited until l had it taped and
then went quietly thru each scene. They still visibly flinched when Xen was
dismembered...as did l.
However....that is no excuse NOT to ever show it again. Now, we be talking
kiddie porn or beastiality, then I have a problem. Extreme violence, as
distasteful as it is, just means that I have the option of watching/reading
it or not. No one is twisting anyone's arm to watch anything on tv. You
don't like your email? Delete. Don't like poetry? Delete. You don't like
something, sure, gripe about it...fine. But don't go telling others what
they can or can't do/watch/read. Forget that.
Opinions: a commodity in which those who have one decide there's is the
only one worth having.
Battle On.
Trish
From: Definell@aol.com
Here's what I have to say:
In America we are free to make up our own minds. Practice the power of
tolerance and learn to take a joke. Xena is created as eye candy. To pull a
program is to distort what is to create.
Hindus have been offended by Xena, television often offends the senses.
I will not jump on the band wagon of America and free speech, but let me just
state the that I am a mother of two sons. I am not gay nor do I believe that
Xena is a gay character any more then I think Teletubbies have a sexual bone
in their over stuffed bodies. But really why is this an issue in the year
1999? Where is the tolerance? Why must we all be the same and so afraid?
Perhaps the message of their God Krishna is misrepresented, however Xena was
responsible for my teen age sons to start studying about Hindus. Opening
minds is what the medium of television should be about. My God is often made
fun, his name taken in vain. Mine is one of the youngest religions on the
planet. Surely Hindus can withstand a show created for campy entertainment
without falling to pieces over the matter. I respect them for their views,
but I cannot respect censorship. It is what everyone should hold dearly the
right to say anything without someone pulling your opinion off the air.
Thank you for you time.
definell
6 Apr 1999
From: LynBranZrn@aol.com
Hey!
I live in Atlanta, Georgia (USA) and I say the episode "The Way" over a month
ago....
I am not religious (Hindu) by no means, but me personally, I saw nothing
really offensive about this episode. It was no more violent nor religious
then any other
XENA episode.
As far as censorship, the ABC affiliate here in Georgia airs the new ep's of
XENA at 2:35am on Sundays.....unless you're just up at that time, which I
find it very hard to believe that "children" or "anyone" for that fact, you
must tape the show's and watch them at a later time. I find this time slot
for XENA to be ridiculous, but if your looking for an APPRIOPRIATE time slot
to air (rerun) "The Way" then I think this would be the time.
Im really not sure why they choose this time for XENA's new season other than
they wanted to keep all "subtext" away from THE CHILDREN.....
Just some thoughts.
Lyn
From: "Candy" <rizzo@jps.net>
Like Illusia, I would like to be able to do something to reverse this
action REN pictures is taking. Though I don't believe we can do
anything now it has been printed in the papers. There was one article
I read on MaryD's site that made me see red. They weren't satisfied
with Rob Tapert saying his apologies in his press statement, they
wanted a personal apology. Something written to every Hindu.. excuse
me! Where do they come off thinking they deserve anything. Most of
these people who are hollering haven't even seen the episode. What
really sets me off is they had on the set an Hindu consultant, and
this person didn't see anything wrong with the episode. So tell me,
what else were they suppose to do? I believe they did the episode in
good faith and for anyone to take Xena:Warrior Princess as gospel
needs to get a real life. My goodness Greeks could be next to
Candycomplain, or maybe Romans for having smeared Julius Caesar's name...
Goddess worshippers for slandering Aphrodite ... this could snowball
right before our eyes. Where does it stop? Why doesn't our voice
rate the same as the those complaining now???
Ok... I'm climbing down off my soapbox. I'm fed up with people
messing with stuff that doesn't need messing with.
Return to the Top
Subj: [XAC] Re: [Flawless] Letter from Rob Tapert
Date: 4/6/99 8:24:03 PM Mountain Daylight Time
From: Trellopa@aol.com
Reply-to: XAC@onelist.com
To: XAC@onelist.com
From: Trellopa@aol.com
Glad to have this list and here is what I wrote Mr Aghi who is the contact
man for Ren Pic on this matter:
Dear Mr. Aghi:
I believe the Hindu protest over the Xena episode "The Way" is manipulation
of the media to gain notice for their conservative group. Are these the same
people who led the protest of the showing of the film "Fire" in Indian
because it depicted the love of two women who happened to be named after
religious figures in the Ramayana epic. The women were named Sita and Rahda.
I live in Washington DC and I recently saw a showing of the film at the
Women's Museum. It was introduced by an Indian woman who told of the friction
between these conservative Hindi groups (now in prominent power because of
the conservative government in India) and their displeasure with certain
films; especially women's films.
I fully support the producers of Xena and am sorry they were pressured into
pulling this episode "The Way" from syndication. Cenorship by a conservative
relgious group is outrageous! Because of the Xena India episodes, I became
interested in learning more about Devi and when the "Devi: The Great Goddess"
exhibit recently opened here in DC at the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery of the
Smithsonian (March 28 through September 6, 1999), I went to see it and was
awed by the intricate beauty of the paintings and the dynamic sculpture
depicting the Devi. I would not have done this if I had not been influenced
by the Xena eps.
Sincerely,
Paula Trello
Apt 506
2456 20th St NW
Washington, DC 20009 trellopa@aol.com
If anyone wishes to contact Mr. Aghi he is at iapf@access1.net
From: "Lynne Gearhart" <lynnieg@tir.com>
Quite a story unfolding here eh? We know what we have to do, so let's
get to it........Okay, I'll fess up to being an ol 60's activist type
character.......so I will put this out there for you to think about.......I
got to see The Way, in fact it's taped and I can watch it as much as I want.
Think about all the Xenites in Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and other
parts of the world.......the fact that they do not get to see it is what
motivates me to fight for the rights of us all, and what sort of censorship
of the show could happen in the future. I'm still pis*ed it was pulled
in parts (if not all) of Canada for some other lame reason when it first
aired. The Internet has brought us together, and we should fight for
this principle as much as we abhor FGM, the rights (or lack of) of women.
We must fight for this, so drag out your stamps, and send those
letters.......volume in paper is what it takes.......unfortunately e-mail is
what is easy, but we gotta do some trees here....
Remember, as Xena says "Be Nice", we have to let them know how much we like
the show and the work of RenPic, Rob, RJ, Liz, Lucy, Renee, and all the
Xenastaff, and how they give us terrific episodes that make us think, and
feel, and respect diversity. Sounds like sucking up? To be
pis*ed off in our correspondence will only make us sound like the kind of
terrorists we're trying to discredit.......If you're angry, go kick a rock,
cause I'm tellin ya this will work a whole lot better....... believe me I've
got the foot injuries from years of anger to back this theory up ;-))
from tonights USA ep of Herc........
"I never flee, I only leave
to fight another day".....Lynne
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From: arianne@navybase.net (Arianne Barreto Camacho)
I don't think this would be a temporary list. This is a test of what Xenites can do about themselves. IF this Hindu thing resolve, this list can't go apart, because, who knows, another group may protest again, and may pulled another episode. And this can be before the episode AIRS!
Just a thought, :)
If anyone knows, how many people has join the list? How many are we?
Thanx
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