NYC Officials to FCC: Investigate Antigay Language

Six elected officials from New York City sent a letter to the Federal Communications Commission Tuesday asking the regulatory agency to investigate the use of antigay language on the Puerto Rican television show Super Xclusivo, which airs on WAPA América.

“We are writing with respect to the ongoing use of troubling, anti-gay language on the Puerto Rican television show Super Xclusivo on WAPA América,” says the letter. “Consumer complaints have been filed with the Federal Communications Commission and we respectfully ask that you investigate these complaints thoroughly and swiftly.”

The letter to FCC chairman Julius Genachowski is signed by congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez, city council speaker Christine Quinn, and council members Danny Dromm, Melissa Mark-Viverito, Rosie Mendez, and Jimmy Van Bramer.

Quinn, Dromm, Mendez, and Van Bramer are openly gay.

“While we respect freedom of speech, using anti-gay language in this context crosses the line and puts the public welfare at risk,” the letter continues. “New York and Puerto Rico have both been affected by a number of high-profile hate crimes in recent months. It is imperative to stand up against language that can contribute to bigotry.”

Read the full letter here.