'All American Muslim' Sells Out Ad Space After Criticism From Christian Group

Music Mogul Russell Simmons Protests, Accuses Retailer of Endorsing Hate

By Ray Downs, Christian Post Reporter Tuesday, December 13, 2011

After an evangelical Christian group complained to Lowe's for advertising on a TV show that portrayed American Muslim families in Michigan as “ordinary folks” as opposed to extremists, the retail giant pulled its advertising, causing a backlash – not just in words. Ad space for the show has apparently sold out, according to millionaire hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons.

The Learning Channel's (TLC) “All American Muslim,” is a reality show that “offers an intimate look at the customs and celebrations, misconceptions and conflicts these families face outside and within their own community,” according to TLC's website.

However, the Florida Family Association (FFA) argues that the show is “propaganda clearly designed to counter legitimate and present-day concerns about many Muslims who are advancing Islamic fundamentalism and Sharia law,” according to the group's website. The evangelical Christian group urged Lowe's to pull its advertising.

After Lowe's did just that, it received an angry backlash from thousands of people on Facebook, as well as high-profile figures, such as Simmons, who was immediately vocal about the subject.

Soon after the story broke, Simmons tweeted: “Lowes is a 'corporate citizen' their actions matter. No christian jewish buddhist or hindu should sit by and watch this w/out reacting.”

He later criticized Lowe's for "endorsing hate" by pulling its ads due to the FFA's complaints that “All American Muslim” is propaganda.

“[Lowe's] can do anything they want but for 'my business' they can't promote hate. If u publicly endorse hate count me out!” he tweeted.

Simmons tried to express his sentiments by buying ad space on the show to promote his debit card business, but TLC had already sold out since the Lowe's backlash, according to Simmons' news website, GlobalGrind.

“I’m trying to buy ads during #AllAmericanMuslim airing this Sunday, but now they are saying they are sold out. I will keep trying…” he tweeted.