What Are Your Convictions Worth?
Penguin August 6th, 2008
Last friday, I had a meeting to talk about all the issues that came up from the Kyrgyzstan trip. Obviously, there’s more at stake than the 1 or 2 films that I shot in the two weeks. The crucial issue is censorship, free speech, and control.
I totally understand that being Christians in a Muslim country is difficult and dangerous. I was not above omitting certain details in order to protect the identity of those involved and even the locations. Unfortunately, this was not enough for them and they still wanted total control over the final product.
So $5,400 and 18 days spent, I was unwilling to compromise my belief in free speech. If the only course of action for me is to turn over the tapes, then so be it. Additionally, I’ve turned over the camera because I will not work for an organization that does not value free speech.
Not much changes for me. I’ve been operating independently for the last 6 years; spending my own money and time. It’ll just be a little harder to recruit people to participate. And I will have no finances because I have no income.
At least I stood up for what I believed was right and I didn’t sell my convictions. That’s got to be worth something. Right?
-Penguin
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