CBS To Show “9/11″ On Web

I've mentioned before the American Family Association's wrong-headed attempt to stop CBS from showing the documentary 9/11 due to its occasional harsh language. The film has been shown twice before on television with no problems. This time the AFA promised a complaint writing campaign to the FCC if it is shown.

Look, the one thing this country cannot do is forget what happened on that day five years ago. In the context of that day, the language should not be considered an issue. I can guarantee you I heard – and used – language that was likely just as bad that day.

But CBS has made a decision to show the film on the web to reach those areas where local stations have dropped or delayed it.

The documentary was produced by French filmmakers Gedeon and Jules Naudet and retired New York firefighter James Hanlon and has aired twice without incurring fines by U.S. regulators charged with enforcing broadcast decency standards.

CBS said affiliates that cover about 10 percent of the United States had decided not broadcast the program or would show it late at night, citing concerns they could be fined for airing profanity, primarily by firefighters during the crisis, before 10 p.m.

The American Family Association, which describes itself as a Christian organization promoting traditional values, has called on CBS stations to forgo or delay the "9/11" broadcast.

"The online streaming of this broadcast will allow viewers in those markets to see the Peabody Award-winning special," CBS said in a statement. The network will air warnings about graphic language.

I do not agree with the AFA's stance on this issue at all.