"Content Neutral." That's the new booking rule for the Utah State Fairpark, after a lawsuit by some half dozen "Marilyn Manson" fans prompted a review of policy. They claim their First Amendment rights were violated when Marilyn Manson was canceled from performing at the Fairpark.
The fans received a $9,000 judgment, and although Judge Winder denied their motion that the concert be ordered to perform, he stated that the Fairpark can't decide this is filthy stuff and shouldn't be heard by the community and that had Marilyn Manson brought the lawsuit himself, the outcome would have been different.I am wondering who gets to decide what is "filthy stuff." Who draws the lines? Following are some facts about Marilyn Manson: He has been banned from many states. He sings about rape, sex, violent death, sodomy, self-mutilation, crucifixion of parents, urine, Satan worship and suicide. He drinks his own blood and cuts himself on stage with broken bottles. I would include some lyrics, but they would be removed for being pornographic (ironic, isn't it?).
According to Utah Code 76-10-1203, pornography is "any material that is patently offensive, in the description or depiction of nudity, sexual conduct, sexual excitement, sadomasochistic abuse or excretion." Seems like Manson falls into that category.
I believe enough studies have been done to show that a constant consumption of this type of media is a "clear and present danger" to our youth and to society. Just recently a group of teens murdered a Washington family and cited a passion for Manson's music.
Crimes by teens have skyrocketed in the past few years. There is much concern at government levels on how to stem the tide of youth violence. Maybe we should start in our own backyards. Free speech is not without limits. It is time for parents and citizens to take a stand and say "this is filthy stuff, and the line has been crossed."
Nancy Rector
West Valley City