Obscenity definition vetoed

Press, 23 January 1984, Page 26

Obscenity definition vetoed

NZPA-AP Minneapolis A controversial ordinance that would have defined pornography as discrimination against women has been vetoed by the Mayor of Minneapolis, Mr Donald Fraser. The measure had passed on a 7-6 vote of the City Council and nine votes would be required to override Mr Fraser’s veto. He said that the broadness of the ordinance’s definition of pornography made it unacceptable. “It is too vague to adequately inform people as to whether their activities might be covered by it,” he said. The measure would have allowed women who had been discriminated against to sue for damages from distributors of certain obscene books, magazines or movies. Proponents say pornography can lead to violence against women. Mr Fraser said he did not see the vetoing of this ordinance as an end to the issue but “rather I see it as an

imperfect statement.” He vetoed the ordinance with his signature as he spoke to a room crowded with reporters, City Council members and others, mostly advocates of the ordinance who moaned as he announced his decision. In a letter to the Council President, Alice Rainville, Mr Fraser said “the remedy sought through the ordinance as drafted is neither appropriate nor enforceable within our cherished tradition and constitutionally protected right of free speech.” He said that it needed more study and analysis before the ordinance should be reintroduced.