FIRENZE-NUOVA ROMA 2 April 2021 (NRom)
In light of continuing shootings even into Holy Week, His Holiness and Eminence the Archfather released a statement today on Holy Friday regarding the need for media responsibility in reporting shooting and other violent events. The statement results from a collection of scientific research demonstrating mass shooting events spread like diseases. The media can help save lives by limiting or eliminating its coverage of those events. In his statement, Papa Rutherford I called on media to exercise restraint and responsibility and for government to enact restrictions on the press if necessary.
Full text of the statement:
Statement of the Archfather on Holy Friday
regarding Mass Shootings and the Need
for Media to Exercise Responsibility
Today as we solemnly remember the Passion and Crucifixion of our Lord, we also should pause to reflect on the current spread of mass shootings in the United States, one of which took place on Wednesday of Holy Week. It has been shown in scientific research that shootings such as these are contagious, spreading like a virus. Constant media coverage and attention does little but fan the flames and cause further spread. Research further suggests strongly that minimal or no coverage of such events could help greatly to prevent further shootings from happening after the initial violence takes place, saving lives. Yet, the media has consistently shown itself entirely unwilling to exercise such responsible restraint. Instead, it seems to relish in the death and destruction and the ratings increase and financial gain that no doubt results.
On this day in which Our Lord sacrificed for us all, suffering a horrific death on the Cross, We call upon the media to cease their excessive coverage of mass shootings and other such events. If the media refuses, then the civil government would be well-warranted to place stringent limits upon the media and its coverage of such violent in the legitimate interest of saving lives. Such is their duty to the people in their care.
Indeed, legitimate limits upon speech already exist, such as against certain exclamations in crowded areas that might induce panic and result in injury and possibly death. This, We believe, is no different. The press cannot hide behind a general duty to inform the public of facts while ignoring and abdicating completely the responsibility of providing those facts and the manner in which it is provided.
May Almighty God be with each of you as we continue through this Sacred Triduum and as the Easter season begins at the first mass of Easter on Saturday morning. May this Easter season be a rebirth of peace in the world and a renewal of normality.
