Rahall: "Shelter" Stereotype Shows Ignorance
02/26/08U.S. Rep. Nick J. Rahall (D-WV) released the following statement in response to the harmful stereotyping of West Virginians in the casting call for the upcoming film "Shelter."
"I was appalled at the casting call for the horror film "Shelter" that seems to be attempting to portray West Virginians as something akin to carnival sideshow attractions. The offensive language used in the casting announcement demonstrates an astounding degree of ignorance on the part of the movie's producers. Most absurd is the suggestion that ‘normal-looking children' need not apply. I doubt that these Hollywood types have any idea what "normal" is and I would welcome the opportunity to cast the roll of Hollywood Producer in my own version of the story: only the intolerant, narrow-minded, and prejudiced need apply."