A few days ago, mangaka Nogami Takeshi responded to CNN’s RapeLay coverage. Posting originally in Japanese, our friends over at tsurupeta kindly translated his words into English. There is a pretty good debate going on over there, and I definitely recommend the letter as a great read.

野上武志先生へ、
すみません、私は日本語が下手ですから、英語で書きます。

I have read your response to CNN’s RapeLay coverage. I just want to tell you that I find your personal involvement in this issue very admirable. Too often lesser figures sit and do nothing and silence themselves in cowardice or laziness. I believe CNN’s RapeLay story was an attack on the profession of you and your colleagues, your fans, and the people of Japan. American media, with all that is going on in our country, have no right to speak of hentai and eroge from the “moral high ground.” The rhetoric in your response is critical, your logic is rational, and your motivation is just. As a fan of Japanese media living in the United States, I wish to personally thank you for you outspokenness in defense of your noble profession. Keep in mind that your supporters reside in the US as well. I hope your response reaches the ears of CNN.
I am sorry I am unable to respond in Japanese. I hope my words are not lost on you.

All the best,
Kevin —–

While I’m posting, I almost forgot to mention this. My friend zzeroparticle kindly allowed me to guest write a post on his blog. Please be sure to check it out!

Let’s face it, CNN has not had a good track record this decade in covering Japanese subculture. To the embarrassingly inane piece a few months ago about Bad Apple to this week’s speechlessly inaccurate, mindlessly sensationalized vitriol on the Japanese eroge industry, I begin to question the journalistic integrity of this news network which I respect deeply.

I have trouble watching the entire video, since I cannot bring myself to sit though some parts. The ignorance of context and blatant sensationalism is too much. The background sounds added in for good measure are a combination of disturbing and funny. (more…)