New Yorker

To:  New Yorker Magazine

Along with thousands of responsible Americans, I am simply outraged by the lack of good judgment the New Yorker Magazine used when the editors decided it was okay to play on the fears and stereotypes associated with Barack Obama. I understand that it was supposed to be satirical, but given the importance of the upcoming election, the seriousness of the libeling and slandering towards Obama, and the fact that the image on the cover will be seen by countless readers and people passing by newsstands, not only is it non-humorous, but disgusting as well.

As your editors have indicated, these lies about Obama are ridiculous. Unfortunately, they are believed by many low-information voters whose votes will be influenced more by pictures and sound bites than the real issues that could shape the future of our country. Even the most carefully written words will have a hard time undoing the imagery that will be burned into the conscious and sub-conscious minds of all who see the cover picture.

I find it hard to believe that such a reputable publication would do something so irresponsible and careless. No other presidential candidate in our history has been publically mischaracterized this way. There is little doubt that this misguided application of the First Amendment does not allow you to slander and defame anyone's good character and in this case, will undermine the democratic process throughout the rest of the campaign.

It is difficult to tell how much damage this will do to the Obama campaign, but one thing is certain; the New Yorker will face a massive boycott if the cover is released. I will be just one of many who promise to never read the New Yorker again. Additionally, since many people have already seen the cover, it is your responsibility to understand the negative implications it will have and very publically apologize to the Obama campaign as well as the American public.

Sincerely,

The Undersigned

The New Yorker Petition to New Yorker Magazine was created by Citizens Against Slander and written by Robert Elchert (elchert@uchicago.edu).  This petition is hosted here at www.PetitionOnline.com as a public service. There is no endorsement of this petition, express or implied, by Artifice, Inc. or our sponsors. For technical support please use our simple Petition Help form.