Never doubt the effect of angry, disgusted people working together towards a common goal.
RATM, among many other groups and individuals, fought tirelessly to bring about exactly this outcome. Martin Bashir, who suggested that Sarah Palin be punished for a reference to slavery by having someone defecate in her mount and urinate on her face, has succumbed to pressure and QUIT his position as anchor at MSNBC. Rage Against the Media’s persistent Facebook and twitter campaign directed at Bashir himself as well as MSNBC and 2 of their clean-imaged sponsors unquestionably played a role in Bashir’s decision. We also encouraged people to file a complaint with the FCC, and to call the “Society for Profssional Journalists” Ethics Hotline. We also visibly and loudly pointed out how MSNBC’ positioning itself as the “Progressive” news netw0rk was hardly benefitted by the misogynistic, hate-filled rhetoric from this man. Taken together, this multi-pronged attack by several thousand angry citizen activists are certainly what brought about this outcome.
From Martin Bashir via email:
After making an on-air apology, I asked for permission to take some additional time out around the Thanksgiving holiday.
Upon further reflection, and after meeting with the President of MSNBC, I have tendered my resignation. It is my sincere hope that all of my colleagues, at this special network, will be allowed to focus on the issues that matter without the distraction of myself or my ill-judged comments.
I deeply regret what was said, will endeavor to work hard at making constructive contributions in the future and will always have a deep appreciation for our viewers – who are the smartest, most compassionate and discerning of all television audiences. I would also wish to express deepest gratitude to my immediate colleagues, and our contributors, all of whom have given so much of themselves to our broadcast.’
Rage Against the Media felt that even when the apology was offered, this was hardly sufficient and that Bashir must suffer some measure of consequences. For his abuse of his position to go unpunished was to give carte blanche to him and any other news anchor to whom the public turns for information. This resignation now serves as notice to others in similar positions of trust: Don’t do this, or we’ll come after you, too.
From the groups supporting Sarah Palin, to other media-fighting organizations such as Truth Revolt, and individuals acting out of their own outrage, together we made a difference. That these steps needed to be taken is horrifying; that they were effective is cause for celebration. Every one who played a role in this effort has reason to be proud. We spoke up, we fought back, we were heard.
On to the next one.