OPB; politically correct to a fault?I like OPB. (That’s Oregon Public Broadcasting.) But they don’t want my help with their pledge drive. I thought it sounded like a great way to help them, and get a little free publicity for my campaign. I offered 6-8 volunteers for a few hours on the phones. Their website says that volunteer groups can expect to be identified on air at least twice during their shift. I wasn’t hoping for an endorsement or an interview – just a mention to their audience. Their website doesn’t say anything about political groups, but they just called to decline my offer of help because they don’t allow political groups to participate. OK, I guess I can understand that they don’t want to stand there and thank the KKK for their volunteer support, or neo-Nazis, or Hamas. They run the risk of looking as though they condone the volunteer group’s agenda. But what about the “non-political” groups they accept? Almost all groups have at least some political agenda of self promotion. Any commercial group is implying “buy our product.” Any social group is implying “accept our lifestyle.” Any group whatsoever is implying “we have a shared value in our support for OPB.” Why should an overtly political group be treated differently than one with a more subtle agenda? OPB’s website cites: “Anthro Corp;” as a maker of ergonomic furniture they have obvious political interests in OSHA standards. “Financial Planning Association of Oregon & Washington;” they probably care about tax policy and social security privatization. And “Portland Gay Men’s Chorus;” who implicitly advocate for lifestyle acceptance and non-discrimination. The only group I see listed that has no obvious political context is called “Avamere at Sandy” – but that’s only because I have no idea who they are. Are they concerned that competing political groups might demand equal time? By allowing my campaign, might they have to accept volunteers from John McCain, or Hillary Clinton? Wouldn’t that be quite a problem to have? Too many volunteers! Well, I generally support OPB, but I’m disappointed in their choice on this issue. I’ll be listening closely to their pledge drive this next week and I’ll give them hell for any overtly political civic or social volunteers. Michael Previous: What’s a “neo-con” to you? -- Next: Immigrants; Who Cares? |
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