Michael R. Snedeker
Paul W. Comiskey
Mr. Gerald Zuckerman
Chief, Legal, Advisory and Enforcement Division
Federal Communications Commission
Washington, D.C. 20554
Dear Mr. Zuckerman;
I am disturbed to see a critical situation facing the Peoples Temple Church due to proposed action on the part of your agency. I believe their church is one of the most important organizations in California. It uniquely blends compassionate social concern with concrete programs of action. The California populace, and particularly San Francisco, has benefited from service programs that have substantially alleviated dependency on government expenditures by minorities and the poor, and have actively prevented recidivism by providing comprehensive rehabilitative facilities. Reverend Jim Jones is highly regarded for his commitment to racial and economic equality, and his ability to bring about practical remedies for every area of human need. His absence from the United States has been keenly felt.
The agricultural project established in Guyana, is the great composite of these efforts. The stature of that accomplishment, and the immense efforts it has entailed are perhaps only exceeded by the spirit of this remarkable church, to persist and succeed where others would dare not go. It is living proof that human beings, however disadvantaged or disturbed their background, can fulfill the highest expectations in an environment of compassion and practical concern.
Now this program is threatened with the cut-off of the only line of communications between Guyana and the United States! In view of the lengthy series of harassments provoked by a politically-motivated conspiracy for the past year, likely sources emerge as “complainants” to the FCC. Attempts were made to cut off funding, to cut off supplies, and now this.
Whose interest could such a radio cut-off serve? Close to 1500 Americans have settled productively in Guyana who were considered “rejects” from society here. The idea of cutting these people off or damaging their efforts in any way should be anathema to anyone who supports practical, humane solutions to the crisis of our cities. It would be short-sighted and frankly, inhumane to interfere with their freedom to communicate over the air.
I am appalled at the latest attempt to thwart this most creative and practical alternative to inner city life. I urge an immediate and definite ruling in favor of the San Francisco radio operator, Mr. Elton T. Adams.
Very truly yours,
Michael Snedeker
CC: Mr. Charles Ferris, Chairman