Jello Biafra

The importance of the case against Dead Kennedys singer Jello Biafra should not be overshadowed by one’s musical taste.

The decision to drop the charges (Metro, Aug. 28) of pornography against Biafra and his record label confirms the First Amendment rights of the entire artistic community.

Had the poster in question been a sophomoric rendering instead of a recognized work of art, or had there been no label on the album cover cautioning against explicit and potentially offensive material, then perhaps the group could be considered guilty of a lack of sensitivity to the needs of the community.

The right of an artist--or anyone--to express himself or herself freely is a basic premise of our value system. I am elated that Los Angeles Municipal Judge Susan E. Isacoff had the guts to uphold this important value in spite of pressure from close-minded groups.

FRANCI LEVINE

Agoura