Mel Gibson Apologize to CSUN students and the Mayan Community!

Mel Gibson Apologize to CSUN students and the Mayan Community!





We demand that Mel Gibson, writer and director of the film Apocalypto apologize to the faculty, students and members of the Mayan community present at the California State University Northridge talk where he used an abusive obscenity in response to legitimate questions about his film. Mel Gibsons obscene and hostile remarks tarnished the safe learning environment that the university strives to foster for all students, faculty and guests. His refusal to address the questions raised by the Mayan community members and his obscene response saying F ck off lady demonstrates a fundamental lack of respect and understanding of the issues raised by the indigenous communities he claims to depict in his film.





While we cannot hold a Hollywood movie like Apocalypto to the standards of accuracy in its depiction of history, we must hold it and its creator accountable for its public value, impact and influence. Apocalypto is a movie that perpetuates a racist and violent understanding of Indigenous peoples; these representations propagate, at best, misconception, and at worst, hate toward the Indigenous communities.





We also hope that as a public figure, Mel Gibson, truly understands that his work, views and productions are and should be open to public scrutiny as well as public viewing and support. This is the power of film after all.





Please let the following people at the University of California Northridge know that you support the Mayan Community and that Mel Gibson should do the right thing and apologize, by signing this petition and sending it to the following people:





Jolene Koester, President


Telephone: (818) 677-2121


[email protected]





Harry Hellenbrand


Office of the Provost & Vice President for Academic Affairs


Phone: (818) 677-2957 Fax: (818) 677-5530


[email protected]





Elizabeth Say, Dean of College of Humanities


[email protected]





In Solidarity,


Concerned Students and Community Members