Censorship Is Not For Me

One of the television news magazines apparently recently ran a piece on AKC dog shows. I can't comment on it as I didn't see it, but I can comment on some of the fallout. I have it first-hand from people to whom it has happened that at least some AKC clubs are now trying to ban media from their shows. As most shows are held in public places, this seems like an illegal action. And besides, quite the overreaction. Yes, the press does sometimes overstep, especially in these days of "if it bleeds, it leads," but people also need to remember that the press has been responsible for uncovering things like Watergate and Love Canal.
As a long-time member of Dog Writers Association of America, I think we need to let the AKC know that trying to ban media is an excruciatingly bad idea. The people who have personally been told they will no longer be welcome at shows were also significant contributors of awards and financial support, so it's especially unfair.
And the AKC needs to remember that they aren't the only game in town - there is the UKC, which welcomes mixed breeds as well as purebreds.
Censorship is not an option. Maybe clubs need to engage in more education, as that was always stated as one of the prime objectives of the AKC regarding dog shows.