Statement from People Against Censorship Regarding the Suspension of Opie and Anthony by XM Satellite Radio

New York, NY, May 17, 2007 --(PR.com)-- In response to the suspension of the Opie and Anthony Show by XM Satellite Radio, Debbie Wolfe, co-founder of People against Censorship, has issued the following statement:

"People Against Censorship is outraged by the decision of XM Radio to suspend Opie and Anthony based on a few sentences which were uttered on air by a homeless man who visited their radio show. He was neither a paid guest nor a member of the show, and the segment was completely unscripted. Permitting a homeless man to speak freely on their show, for the entertainment value of seeing what he might say, should not result in any reprimand. We are hard pressed to believe that any reasonable person who actually heard the show when it aired could find the comments to be dangerous, or a serious threat in any way.

"Opie and Anthony were hired to deliver content that is edgy, direct and honest, and their program airs on a channel that is designated XL for extreme language and content, and XM has always taken pride in the fact that they provide content that broadcast radio is either unable or unwilling to provide. The chilling effect of this decision on all other broadcasters is dangerous, and deplorable, and XM's actions are a clear example of corporate irresponsibility. XM and Sirius should be the champions of free speech. If even Satellite Radio cannot claim to be free of censorship, then we, as a nation have no hope of preserving the very important principals behind freedom of speech and free expression.

"We are calling upon all broadcasters and entertainers to take a stand against this decision by taking to the airwaves, speaking out, and joining People Against Censorship. This decision is completely unacceptable and we are seeking the immediate return to the airwaves of Opie and Anthony.

"People Against Censorship is a organization of people from all backgrounds, races, religions and ethnicity, who are bonded by the common interest of supporting free broadcast and expression particularly in radio, but also as it applies to all forms of media. PAC formed in response to the wrongful firing of Don Imus and our members vehemently oppose all forms of media censorship, whether initiated by our government, corporations, or special interest groups. We currently have over 3500 members, and are growing rapidly. Please join us at www.peopleagainstcensorship.com."

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