Families of soldiers who were killed are outraged that their loved ones’ images and names are being used on anti-war shirts and other items. These complaints and lawsuits come from family members who are upset that their loved ones are being represented this way by people who are only concerned about making money. Without their permission, these businesses have no right to do this and profit from their grief. States such as Oklahoma and Louisiana have already passed laws banning the commercial use of their names and images last year, while Texas and Florida have legislation awaiting approval. Arizona is on the verge of approving a measure similar to this. Under this bill, businesses are fined and offenders could receive jail time. Business offenders argue that these state bills infringe on their first amendment rights to free speech, but legislators say that they are selling a commercial good that falls under state regulation.
These soldiers have died while protecting our country and I believe that no one should profit from their deaths. Any legislation that defends their names and images should be passed so that their rights and those of their family’s are protected. Even though dead soldiers’ names are public record, this is a sensitive issue that calls for the protection of their rights. We should maintain some dignity for these fallen soldiers who risked their lives to serve our country by passing laws and bills to ensure that their names and images are respected and not abused.
2 comments:
I completely agree. It's hardly short of disgraceful for people to be using the names of soldiers who sacrificed themselves, for their own personally gain. Not to mention they are clearly violating the families of these soldiers their right to privacy.
I agree with you as well. The dead soldiers died courageously, protecting our country and families, and they are being used on anti-war shirts and other items!?! It is an insult and these American soldiers deserve better!
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