Issues@Hand
AFA initiatives, Christian activism, news briefs
May 1996 – American Family Association has called for a picket on Saturday, May 18, of stores selling pornography. AFA encourages individuals, churches and groups to organize a picket of local stores which sell or rent porn videos, magazines or other pornographic material. AFA suggests that the picket be held from 10 a.m. until 12 noon on that day, but any time during the day is acceptable.
Research reveals that 70% of all pornographic magazines and videos end up in the hands of children. In addition, states with the highest readership of “adult magazines” have the highest incidence of reported rape. Eighty-six percent of rapists admit to regular use of pornography with 75% admitting actual imitation of pornographic scenes in the commission of sex crimes.
Pornographic magazines and videos are a huge business in the U.S. with revenues growing from an estimated $1 billion in 1970 to $10-12 billion currently. AFA president Donald E. Wildmon said, “The devastation in our society surrounding the lucrative retail pornography business is a tragedy and must no longer be overlooked. I urge everyone to become more informed about this dangerous proliferation and begin fighting back by organizing their communities for action.”
Wildmon said that pornography can be stopped with effective action on the local level. He said that individuals must care enough to speak up by contacting local store owners and managers, organizing local peaceful pickets and encouraging enforcement of obscenity laws.
Wildmon said special emphasis is being placed on picketing of Circle K, Diamond Shamrock, Dairy Mart and other convenience store chains. 7-Eleven pulled the pornography from all their corporately owned convenience stores following picketing and boycotting by AFA.
A Picket Packet giving detailed instructions on how to organize and execute a successful picket can be found on pages 22-23. A large number of people is not necessary for a successful picket, Wildmon said. “Two or three individuals can work wonders with a picket.”
Wildmon said he is especially hopeful that ministers will lead their people in a picket. “It is time for ministers to provide moral leadership in this battle against pornography, for them to get involved and take a visible stand and to encourage their members to do the same. Pornography has grown because of our silence. Ministers and their congregations should be leading the battle against pornography,” he said.
AFA asks those who picket on May 18, or on an alternate date, to inform AFA by writing Buddy Smith or calling him at 601-844-5036.
