BEAVERTON, Ore. (September 19, 2011) – The Parents Television Council® attended the Nike shareholder meeting to thank the company for its commitment to sponsoring family-friendly TV programs with its ad buys, but urged caution regarding Nike’s sponsorship of shows such as “90210” and “Family Guy.”

Gavin McKiernan, national grassroots director for the Parents Television Council, attended the meeting. The following are excerpts from his prepared remarks, which were submitted in condensed form during the written question and answer session at the meeting.

“While parents can be generally pleased with your advertising practices, we are still finding areas where Nike could improve. I wish to bring to your attention shows such as ‘90210,’ ‘Family Guy’ and ‘Vampire Diaries,’ which Nike’s advertising dollars supported and were problematic for viewers of ages your company targets.

“In an episode of ‘90210,’ a character named Naomi attempts to cope with her sexual assault by getting drunk and stripping in front of a group of men to show that she is still the same spunky and sexual girl she’s always been.

“An episode of ‘Vampire Diaries’ includes a scene where a vampire is shown choking a female character. Both of these episodes were sponsored by Nike. This type of exposure of violence and language is unhealthy for children in their social and emotional development. By advertising on this program, your company supports its content.

“According to a Harris Poll, ‘Twenty-seven percent of Americans say they did not purchase a certain brand because they did not like a program or event sponsored by the brand.’

“While Nike can be rightfully proud that it is not among the common sponsors of explicit content, I am pleading with you on behalf of millions of Americans to bring higher standards to your advertising practices. I hope you will accept my invitation today to work with the Parents Television Council to find programming alternatives that will meet your media goals.”