AFM Supports Network “Net” Neutrality by Joining Rock the Net and Internet for Everyone
MEDIA ADVISORY FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Carmen Group – Sabrina Ram
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rams@carmengroup.com
The American Federation of Musicians Announces Its Support for Network “Net” Neutrality by Joining Rock the Net and Internet for Everyone
New York, NY – The American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM), in support of the concept of network “net” neutrality, has joined Future of Music Coalition’s Rock the Net campaign and Free Press’ Internet for Everyone initiative.
In the 21st century, the Internet has become a critical method for musicians to distribute their work. Artists of all levels of success use the Internet to get their music to fans, either through iTunes, eMusic, Amazon, YouTube, MySpace or the myriad other websites that allow music to be sold or streamed. The Internet allows music and musicians to flourish and must be kept open and neutral. At the same time, the music that is carried over the Internet must be protected from copyright infringement. These two concepts are not antithetical, and AFM will work to see that both principles are enshrined in legislation and administration policy.
AFM congratulates the Future of Music Coalition and Free Press for their success in advocating for an open Internet and will work with them and the creative community to promote network neutrality while protecting copyrighted content.
ABOUT THE AFM
Founded in 1896, the American Federation of Musicians of the United States and Canada (AFM), AFL-CIO, is the largest organization in the world dedicated to representing the interests of professional musicians. With more than 90,000 members, the AFM represents all types of professional musicians, including those who record music for sound recordings, film scores, videogames, radio, television and commercial announcements, as well as perform music of every genre in every sort of venue from small jazz clubs to symphony orchestra halls to major stadiums. Whether negotiating fair agreements, protecting ownership of recorded music, securing benefits such as health care and pension, or lobbying legislators, the AFM is committed to raising industry standards and placing the professional musician in the foreground of the cultural landscape. www.afm.org
