Google Required To Remove Anti-Islam Film From YouTube
Google was ordered to remove an anti-Islam film from its YouTube video-sharing site. The controversial film led to numerous protests worldwide, specifically within Muslim communities. Although Google argued that the film, Innocence of Muslims, is protected under the First Amendment, the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals disagreed.
The short video, which was presented as a film trailer, focused on the Islamic Prophet Mohammed. For Muslims, Muhammad is a prophet and messenger of God. The film was criticized as blasphemous, as the prophet was depicted as “a fool and a sexual deviant.”
As reported by Yahoo News, plaintiff Cindy Lee Garcia appeared in the anti-Islam film. However, she insists that she was misled about the film’s content and message. Garcia said her appearance and words were taken out of context. The clip, which was partially dubbed, portrayed Garcia as asking: “Is Mohammed a child molester?”
Garcia argued that her appearance in the film gave her an express interest in the copyright. Although her case was dismissed by a lower court, the 9th US Circuit Court panel voted 2-1 in her favor.
The anti-Islam film gained negative attention worldwide and is blamed for numerous anti-American uprisings and protests. Although it is unconfirmed, the film was blamed for fueling unrest in Benghazi, which led to an attack on several United States diplomatic facilities.
The Benghazi attack left seven injured and four dead. Those killed included the United States Ambassador to Libya, J. Christopher Stevens.
Despite the negative implications, Google refused to remove the anti-Islam film from YouTube. In an official statement, Google argued that the film is protected as free speech, as outlined in the US Constitution:
“Our laws permit even the vilest criticisms of governments, political leaders, and religious figures as legitimate exercises in free speech.”
In response to the 9th US Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision, Google said that they “strongly disagree with [the] ruling and will fight it.”
Garcia’s attorney, Cris Armenta, was pleased with the decision. He said “ordering YouTube and Google to take down the film was the right thing to do.” As reported by NBC News, Google received numerous requests to remove the film, including a plea from the White House. However, they blatantly refused.
Although Google argues that the film was protected by free speech, Garcia’s case focused on copyright violation. Garcia argued that the anti-Islam film was not representative of her views and her appearance was used out of context. However, she insists it was the copyright violation that prompted her to file the lawsuit.
[Image via Shutterstock]
