Thursday, January 18, 2007

CAIR's Fictional Problem   [Kathryn Jean Lopez]

In the Name of God, the Compassionate, the Merciful

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CAIR CONCERNED ABOUT CIVIL LIBERTIES IMPACT OF FOX'S '24'

(WASHINGTON, D.C., 1/18/07) - A prominent national Islamic civil rights and advocacy group today expressed concern that the new story line on Fox's "24" terror drama may have a negative impact on the national debate over civil liberties.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) said the explosion of a nuclear device near Los Angeles at the end of the most recent episode of "24" may also serve to increase anti-Muslim prejudice in American society.

SEE: Muslims Unhappy Over `24' Portrayal (AP)

In a statement, the Washington-based group said:

"The raw emotional impact of fictional scenes that include widespread death and destruction in America may adversely affect the public's attitude toward civil liberties, religious freedom and interfaith relations. The program's repeated association of acts of terrorism with Islam will only serve to increase anti-Muslim prejudice in our society.

"We have communicated the American Muslim community's concerns about this season's story line to Fox officials and will work with the network to help viewers distinguish between televised fiction and actual world events."

In response to similar concerns about a "24" story line two years ago, Fox aired a public service announcement that featured Kiefer Sutherland urging viewers to avoid stereotyping Muslims.

SEE: Fox Airs '24' Disclaimer (CAIR)

CAIR, America's largest Islamic civil liberties group, has 32 offices and chapters nationwide and in Canada. Its mission is to enhance the understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties, empower American Muslims, and build coalitions that promote justice and mutual understanding.

ME: I saw all four hours of the season premiere and thought the producers brilliant for (among other things) managing to both make the terrorists Arab while essentially portraying CAIR in the storyline, too, and making the head of the-CAIR-like-organization a good guy. Alas — CAIR wastes no opportunity to make noise....

01/18 06:14 PMShare