South Park Episode: Bloody Mary
22 February 2006
New Zealand's national Muslim body today called the decision of CanWest TV Works to screen the "Bloody Mary" episode of South Park tonight "contemptuous" and "tasteless".
Javed Khan, President of the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ), wrote to Rick Friesen, Chief Operating Officer of CanWest TV Works after learning about the decision to bring the screening forward to tonight.
"We consider Mary (peace be upon her) to be an example of a perfect human being, so this cartoon demeans not just her person and the beliefs of those who revere her, but also humanity itself."
Mr Khan also noted that the decision flies in the face of points affirmed by CanWest TV Works and others in a meeting on 8 February between media and religious representatives.
He said today "the meeting affirmed the importance of freedom of the media and that this freedom comes with responsibilities, including sensitivity to diverse cultures and beliefs. Therefore yesterday's announcement leaves us in grave doubt about the sincerity of CanWest TV Works' commitment."
Javed Khan
President
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