We have heard of mothers trying to kill their kids and family pets being put down. Why? Because of speech that has incited these and potentially other actions with negative consequences. Let's not also forget the lost work time and overall lack of productivity that resulted from this broadcast and outdoor media hoax.
Some may argue that this is protected speech and it may be. But when this speech incites physical injury to human life, then suddenly the protection diminishes, maybe not in the law but in the conscience of many.
Whether it's the expansionist efforts of Calvary Chapel of Twin Falls, Educational Media Foundation or the downright abuse of process by Radio Assist/Edgewater Broadcasting, we have seen way too much disrespect for the broadcast spectrum and processes by these mega-ministries. Harold Camping's hoax is just yet another black eye for religious broadcasting.
No non-commercial broadcaster, religious or secular should get as big as CCTF, EMF, RAM/EB or Family Stations. We seriously need to look at ownership caps in the NCE (non-commercial educational) segment. The system is being abused. Not only are they blocking efforts by secular non-profit organizations from getting their message on the air, they are also preventing local churches from having their own independent voice.
Just a reminder, the FCC is starting their next broadcast renewal cycle. If you live within the service contour of a station owned by Family Stations and you feel that actions were incited by the actions of Camping and Family Stations do not meet the public interest expectations of a broadcast licensee, you should seriously consider filing a Petition to Deny with the FCC when their license comes up for renewal. We must stop this spectrum abuse now.
FCC License Renewal Information
Michi Eyre
founder, REC Networks
