Enthusiasts of free software disrupted a Commerce
Department meeting Wednesday, insisting on their right to debate the
entertainment industry over anti-copying technologies.
About a dozen vocal tech activists in the audience challenged
speakers, including Jack Valenti, head of the Motion Picture
Association of America (MPAA), who equated piracy with theft and
applauded digital rights management.
"I'm going to accord you the utmost respect," Valenti said. "I'm going
to listen to you, but let me finish...The first thing we ought to
exhibit is good manners."
The activists, mostly from New Yorkers for Fair Use, interrupted
Valenti with hoots and jeers from the back of the room until the
former presidential aide offered them the chance to reply.
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