Posted on 03/10/2002 8:59:37 AM PST by rface
Irvine, CA.—The American Red Cross has censored the use of the songs “America the Beautiful,” “God Bless the U.S.A” and “The Declaration” (the text of the Declaration of Independence”) at an upcoming event honoring volunteers that assisted at the World Trade Center attack on September 11th.
“First Act,” a musical theatre performing troupe of some of the most talented middle school-aged children from Southern California was invited to perform their popular “Heroes Trilogy,” dedicated to the volunteers of 9-11. But their show was cancelled because of the controversial material.
“The American Red Cross cannot offend anyone. The words ‘prayer’ and ‘God’ are religious words and will offend some. The Declaration of Independence is a political document that also may offend. These songs violate the a-political and a-religious policy of the organization,” said Patricia Johnson, representative for the American Red Cross in Orange County.
First Act has achieved local popularity recently for its moving rendition of an original adaptation and arrangement of three songs, “America the Beautiful,” “Prayer of the Children,” written by Kurt Bestor (also performed at the Columbine High School memorial service), and Lee Greenwood’s “God Bless the U.S.A.”
“The kids have performed these songs for a wide variety of organizations from the Democrat and Republican Parties to the Santa Ana Interfaith Council,” commented the group’s director Cherilyn Bacon. “Without fail, the performance has brought tears and instant standing ovations. From Muslim to Hare Krishna to Christian to Jew, and across the political spectrum, there has been unanimous applause.”
Cindy Boragno, cast member Nicholas Boragno’s mother, is stunned, as are several of the parents. “What rot! This is outrageous,” she said. “To think that the word ‘God’ cannot be used in a song.”
Nicholas added, “Doesn't our president say ‘God’ bless America after every speech?” Cast member Malorie Bryant explained, “We were so excited to finally be able to perform our special “Heroes” tribute to the real heroes themselves.”
“I am deeply disappointed in the Red Cross, whose past reputation has been as a valued leader in humanitarian aid in times of calamity and crisis. By taking this ‘neutral’ position, the organization has just offended most of America,” commented Ms. Bacon.
I AM SPEECHLESS
It's time to stop contributing to "charitable" organizations with no backbone. Start donating to faith based organizations who will tell it like it is. I think the Salvation Army passes the highest percentage of the contributions that they receive on to the people in need. The Red Cross is too busy paying their employees to be politically correct which, in the end, hurts people rather than helps them.
On Now
7:45 PM EST Sunday 3/10/02
What is up with all the poor behavior of the Red Cross?
Was it after Mrs. Dole left that all this started?
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