CBS has refused to comment about the advertisement before it airs. The Times editorial says CBS should regulate advertisements for “accuracy and taste.” But, that’s the trouble. CBS is defining what’s tasteful and whose voice is permissible.
The network would not grant every advocacy group a 30-second spot. There’s the obvious slippery slope argument. CBS won’t be granting Al Qaeda or Neo-Nazi groups a forum, but some realistic organizations would still have difficulty. Would CBS allow marijuana legalization advocates? Would they risk offending the Jewish community by giving a Pro-Palstinian group a place? How about Tobacco companies? CBS censors ads.
Focus on the Family is a Christian group that espouses an immoderate version of the religion. The ad presents an explicitly religious view, contrary to the laws of the United States. Would CBS let fundamentalist Mormons discuss the virtues of polygamy? Would CBS let more rigid Islamic groups present an ad about the proper regulation of women in society? Does it being Christianity make such public evangelism tolerable?
This advertisement has the potential to offend large numbers of women. Whether the women’s interpretation is right or not, CBS is creating a hierarchy. The network is outlining who has a right to be offended and who doesn’t, in this case pro-choice women.
It’s similar to the United States Constitution. Fifty-five mostly God-fearing men created a government that removed God from the equation. It was not because religion was not important. It was because it was impossible to accommodate everyone, so the simplest, fairest solution was to accommodate no one.
Focus on the Family can advocate against Roe v. Wade, but offering them such a public forum will offend many people. CBS may not agree with the sentiment expressed, but airing the ad actively marginalizes a group of people. Neutrality was not allowing any advocacy ads. CBS is affording certain voices legitimacy.
