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Updated 06/27/05

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03/12/05

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Commercial Too Controversial??

The CBS and NBC television networks are refusing to run the UCC's 30-second television ad because its all-inclusive welcome has been deemed "too controversial."  The ad, part of the denomination's new broad identity campaign, began airing nationwide Dec. 1 and includes the message that - like Jesus - the United Church of Christ seeks to welcome all people, regardless of ability, age, race, economic circumstance or sexual orientation.  According to a written explanation from CBS, the UCC is being denied network access because its ad implies acceptance of gay and lesbian couples - among other minority constituencies - and is, therefore, "too controversial."

"Because this commercial touches on the exclusion of gay couples and other minority groups by individuals and organizations," reads the explanation from CBS, "and the fact that the Executive Branch has recently proposed a constitutional amendment to define marriage as the union between a man and a woman, this spot is unacceptable to broadcast on the [CBS and UPN] networks." Similarly, a rejection by NBC declared the spot "too controversial."  The ad has been accepted and will air on a number of networks, including ABC Family, AMC, BET, Discovery, Fox, Hallmark, History, Nick at Nite, TBS, TNT, Travel and TV Land, among others.

The Rev. John Thomas, UCC general minister and president, remarked, "It is ironic that after a political season awash in commercials based on fear and deception by both parties seen on all major networks, an ad with a message of welcome and inclusion would be deemed too controversial.  We find it disturbing that the networks in questions seem to have no problem exploiting gay persons through mindless comedies or titillating dramas, but when it comes to the church's loving welcome of committed gay couples, that's where they draw the line."

To send a fax to the NBC and CBS executives, click http://www.ucctakeaction.org/ctt.asp?u=5999&l=69333

Also, check your local phone listings to contact the station managers of your local CBS and NBC affiliates and express your disappointment about the decision not to air the UCC ad.  UCC members and congregations are also encouraged to conduct local press conferences to draw attention to the networks' refusal to air the advertisement. 

To view the UCC press release on the CBS and NBC decision, click http://www.ucctakeaction.org/ctt.asp?u=5999&l=69334