I got this email in my mailbox today because I'm part of the Jammer's Network. Once I read it. it sort of startled me. I would expect this sort of thing to happen in USA, but in Canada?? The more “liberal” country? So, a Canadian magazine for mental environment called Adbusters wanted to place ads on two Canadian television networks CBC and Canwest Global. The rejected Adbusters ads pointed out that over 50 percent of the
calories in a Big Mac come from fat, called for an end to the age of the
automobile, and promoted Buy Nothing Day.

The networks refused to sell airtime to the Adbusters and the Adbusters sued, but lost. Adbusters claimed the CBC and Canwest Global had violated its right to free speech under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms by refusing to sell air time, but the court decided that the Charter does not apply to private corporations.

The editors issued statements. “It's outrageous that the fast food, oil and automobile industries can
buy as much TV time as they want in order to promote their agendas, but
citizens are not allowed to talk back,” said Adbusters Editor-in-Chief
Kalle Lasn in response to the ruling. “Canadian democracy will not work
properly until we the people have the same right to buy airtime as
corporations do.” “Adbusters has been given 30 days to challenge the
ruling. This legal battle for media democracy will go on.”

I'm more amazed that someone would actually spend time, money and resources to produce ads that for once do not sell products or advertise brands. This seems to be a luxury for most. But I'm glad someone did it. That's a start!

For more info, visit:
Adbusters Mag