Defamation is often used by individuals as a device by the "insecure" 
to make them feel better about themselves, or the "arrogant" to 
maintain their "presumed" superiority. 

When used by groups (including countries), it additionally can be 
used to erode credibility of a competitor/adversary. 

Hitler used Defamation as a tool to discredit and undermine the Jews,
in the 1930's, which made them "sub human", and "acceptable" targets,
and made possible the subsequent unspeakable consequences.

We have long had those in the US, who insist on ignoring and remaining 
oblivious to the damage I-A defamation does to the I-A Community.

It is ironic however, that Italy, who have also been UNable to understand 
the damage wrought by "Soprano" like portrayals, and felt it was strictly 
a US phenomenon, is NOW being subjected to a similar barrage. 

Today it's Germany. What European (or International) Countries tomorrow 
will join in the Chorus of Venom, to paint Italy, and Italians world wide 
with the same Negative Brush?

I do not have the answer to the "European Problem", but I suggest that 
we here in the US, follow the very effective Strategy of the Jewish 
Community, that is to oppose Defamation whenever and wherever it 
raises it's Ugly Head. (Join IAOV- See Below)
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From: Mr. Gianmaria Spagnoletti (In Italy)

I read some days ago on the "Hamburger Morgenpost Online" 
(a German Newspaper) that "The Sopranos" has been recently 
chosen as best TV series in Germany. 

Furthermore another newspaper published in Hamburg, called 
"Die Woche" published a five-column article with the big photo of 
a gun in the centre of the page, declaring that the Italian centre-
right party brought Mafia to the Government. 

In Germany, there have been many such fiery declarations scoffing 
at the democratically elected Italian leaders.

This defamation campaign has been carried on since last May and 
now starts annoying the 700,000 Italians working in Germany. 

Even the public TV channels (Ard and Zdf) constantly mock 
Berlusconi, Fini and Bossi, calling them "mobster", "Fascist" 
"separatist". 

The "Morgenpost" also said that Berlusconi now controls all media 
like Milosevic did when he led Serbia (but this is obviously false!!).
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The Italian American One Voice Coalition is a national network of activists 
enabling the 25 million members of the Italian American community to act as 
one united voice when dealing with defamation, discrimination and negative 
stereotyping of our grand culture and heritage. 

The Italian American One Voice Coalition needs proud Italian Americans who 
are ready, willing and able to fax, write, phone and email the media, the 
motion picture and television industries that portray us in a negative 
manner. Get involved. Get activated! 

All negative stereotyping is wrong. To do nothing is to condone. The cost of 
ethnic freedom is constant vigilance. Lend your voice, ears and energy to the 
Italian American One Voice Coalition. Be sure to let us know when you are 
offended by negative stereotyping of Italian Americans. 

Contact I-AOVC Chairman Dr. Emanuele Alfano:
Email:  Eaa097@aol.com  
http://www.italianamericanonevoice.org/iaindex.html