Verizon censors pro-choice messages on their network

[cynatnite]

Saying it had the right to block “controversial or unsavory” text messages, Verizon Wireless has rejected a request from Naral Pro-Choice America, the abortion rights group, to make Verizon’s mobile network available for a text-message program.

snip:
In turning down the program, Verizon, one of the nation’s two largest wireless carriers, told Naral that it does not accept programs from any group “that seeks to promote an agenda or distribute content that, in its discretion, may be seen as controversial or unsavory to any of our users.” Naral provided copies of its communications with Verizon to The New York Times.

Nancy Keenan, Naral’s president, said Verizon’s decision interfered with political speech and activism.

“No company should be allowed to censor the message we want to send to people who have asked us to send it to them,” Ms. Keenan said. “Regardless of people’s political views, Verizon customers should decide what action to take on their phones. Why does Verizon get to make that choice for them?”

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/09/27/us/27verizon.html?ex=1348545600&en=800fc3b02dc8265d&ei=5089&partner=rssyahoo&emc=rss

[Mythsaje]

1. I really don't see why it's a big deal for Verizon...

Unless they're controlled by a bunch of RW wackjobs... THEN it makes sense.

[Redstone]

2. A "text-message program?" Do you mean a spam campaign?

Redstone