Parents and citizens are duly alarmed by the lyrics of explicit and perverted sex and violence on audio and visual musical media which are openly marketed for children and teenagers. Because the freedom of speech guaranteed in the First Amendment is based upon responsibility for the common good, we support the organized efforts that are calling for ratings of music media as a guide for parents and protection for the young.

The Board of Administration of the National Association of Evangelicals urges that the music publishers exercise their responsibility by setting up a self-rating and self-governing system. If they do not, we urge Congress to enact legislation requiring the ratings consistent with its constitutional responsibility to protect the health, safety and welfare of its people, including our youth.