An Open Letter to AFA Chairman Donald E. Wildmon

25 January, 2006. 462 words.

To: Donald E. Wildmon Chairman, American Family Association

Dear Mr. Wildmon,

I am writing to express my concern over the AFA’s recent actions regarding the NBC television show, The Book of Daniel.

I am a baptized Christian, and my wife and I enjoyed the show a great deal. It was innovative and thought provoking, which I’m sure you will agree is something of a rarity in modern television broadcasting-something, therefore, to be encouraged, not stifled. Innovation is, after all, one of the many things that has made this country great over the years. Sadly, as you may know, The Book of Daniel has been cancelled before it could complete its modest 6-episode run.

I understand that the AFA and its members may feel threatened by thought-provoking television programming about everyday Christians, and I fully support your right to turn off your television, read a book, or choose another form of entertainment.

However, I strongly disagree with your petitions to deny other American families the chance to experience a fresh new television drama that reflects honestly and candidly on families, faith, and issues that affect all of us every day. The AFA and its members, in using such strong-arm tactics as automated email campaigns and advertiser boycotts, have robbed the American family of one of its essential rights: Freedom. Specifically, the freedom to choose the kind of television programming we want to watch. As a result of your actions, my wife and I will not be supporting your organization or any of your sponsers, and I will encourage anyone that shares my views on freedom to do the same.

I urge you to stop this decidedly un-American behavior immediately. Respect the American family’s freedom to choose.

Respectfully,

Thomas Krehbiel

Richmond, Virginia

P.S. Please do not add my email or mailing address to your mailing list. Thank you.

P.P.S. The AFA and its members and supporters will undoubtedly respond that NBC cancelled The Book of Daniel because of poor ratings and (more importantly) insufficient sponsorship. While that may be technically true, it grossly simplifies the complex world of network programming and in no way excuses the AFA’s motives and behavior in this matter. I close with AFA Chairman Donald E. Wildmon’s own words, which I have clarified in some instances:

“This shows the average American that he doesn’t have to simply sit back and take the trash being offered on TV [or learn how to use his remote control], but he can get involved and fight back [against creativity and others’ freedom of choice] with his pocketbook [and our free automated email form].”

“We want to thank the 678,394 individuals who sent [completely automated, borderline spam] e-mails [that we wrote for them] to NBC and the thousands who called and e-mailed their local affiliates.”

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