Target: Andy Jassy, CEO of Amazon Web Services
Goal: Protect consumers by creating clear guidelines about what content is and is not allowed on Prime Video.
Recently, Amazon announced intentions to keep an antisemitic documentary on its video streaming platform, Prime Video. Naturally, many have spoken out about the plan to sustain content that may be hurtful and upsetting to some of the company’s subscribers. Regulating content, however, is not one-size-fits-all for each and every streaming service. Andy Jassy, CEO of Amazon Web Services, says it is no easy task to determine what content crosses the line enough that it should not be made available. He also said that Amazon takes a stance to maintain a range of media even if it does not necessarily appeal to all audiences.
It is difficult to know how far streaming services will go for certain customers. There is no standard for vetting what may or may not create bad press; often profit drives decisions. Often it is easier to immediately pull unfavorable or unpopular content than not give it a try for success. Sometimes, though, taking that chance can have a harmful effect on those who cannot anticipate what they may find.
Customers are the driving force for the success of streaming services and should know what to expect for their money. Therefore, these companies should be transparent regarding what types of content they do and do not support. Perhaps this looks like a clear statement on their webpages or an outline on how they choose what is published. Either way, viewers deserve to know what kinds of companies they are financially backing.
Sign the petition below to urge Amazon Web Services CEO, Andy Jassy, to clearly define for customers what type of potentially offensive content Amazon will not allow on their platform.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear CEO Jassy,
Recent backlash related to Amazon’s decision to keep an antisemitic documentary on its streaming platform has raised some questions about how far your company is willing to go with content. While it is understandable that Amazon wants to provide media for all its customers, the move makes many wonder what your company can do to protect customers who may feel attacked by such content.
One solution is to create a statement of transparency about Amazon’s intentions on pushing the limits on content so customers know what to expect. You also could develop a rubric of sorts to decide what may or may not be appropriate for your service. Finally, a new rating system for Amazon may be handy to guide users away from potentially harmful content. Either way, all customers should have a positive experience on your platform.
We urge you to clearly define for customers what type of potentially offensive content can make it onto Amazon and what already is there.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo credit: Amazon
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