Boycott Aimed at Channel One Ads

A coalition of consumer groups and children’s activists are planning to launch an advertising boycott today, aimed at New York-based Primedia Inc.’s Channel One Network, which distributes news, entertainment and paid commercials to U.S. classrooms.

The groups say Channel One, which is seen by about 8 million children in 12,000 schools nationwide, exploits students.

“Compelling impressionable children to view commercials during their limited school time is repugnant,” states a letter sent by the coalition to Channel One advertisers, including government agencies who have bought air time on the network.

A spokesperson for Channel One said the network has been consistently honored for providing educational programming created specifically for teenagers. “Channel One has had rave reviews from 98% of teachers who use it,” said Jeff Ballabon of Channel One.

Launched in 1990, Channel One provides schools with $25,000 in equipment, including color TVs. In return, schools agree to air a 12-minute daily program, which includes two minutes of ads.

The coalition includes the Ralph Nader-founded Commercial Alert, Phyllis Schlafly’s Eagle Forum, American Family Assn. and Focus on the Family.