Every day, identity politics raises its ugly head in America and snarls threateningly, as various interest grops complain about something somebody said or did that might reflect ill on some particular category of person. This trend threatens to destroy freedom of speech entirely, through largely private sector means, by pressing the constant, intimidating threat of government action.
In short, it follows the political premises of fascism.
How appropriate, then, that today’s instance involves a TV proogram called Big Brother.
An autism group is demanding an apology from the CBS television network over a statement made by a contestant on the show Big Brother, a statement , of course, that the network never claimed represented the corporation’s policy or views.
A national autism group is demanding an apology from CBS over a disparaging remark a contestant on the reality show "Big Brother" made about people with the disorder.
On the show, a contestant named Adam, who said he works for an autism foundation, said he would spend his winnings on a hair salon for people with developmental disabilities "so retards can get it together and get their hair done." The Web site for the show describes him as a 29-year-old public relations manager from Del Ray Beach, Fla.
His remark shocked his partner, Sheila, who replied, "Don’t call them that."
Adam responded by saying, "Disabled kids. I can call them whatever I want. I work with them all day, OK?"
The notion that a TV network cannot even broadcast an exchange between two individuals over the etiquette regarding how to refer a particular group of people—especially a discussion that clearly makes the point for sensitivity in the matter—is thoroughly repugnant.
I suggest that readers call or email Autism United Executive Director John Gilmore with their complaints about the organization’s outrageous, unwarranted, and idiotic attempt at intimidation.