I've always liked U2 and admired the way Bono ditched the traditional rock star stupidity of and endless cycle of booze, drugs, chicks and rehab. So when he started various campaigns to convince companies to give away money to various worthwhile causes, it seemed harmless enough. But Apple's decision to give $100,000 to oppose an initiative called Proposition 8 which would outlaw Gay marriage here in California has reminded me that charity should be the job of individuals not corporations. Why is Apple taking a position on such a contentious social issue and plowing its profits into such a campaign?
I like what Google did far better. It's corporate head honchos don't like Prop 8, so they themselves out of their own pockets donated to the campaign. That's the way it should be.
And I'd like every other corporation in America follow that lead accompanied with a massive campaign to encourage individual Americans to become generous givers.
Corporations, your job is to deliver a product to we the consumes for as low a price as possible, while still keeping your shareholders happy with enough profits to stay in business. Let me take the money you save me by stopping corporate giving and let me decide where to put my money. Just to make you happy, I'll even let you give me your suggestions as to where you think I should donate to. But get out of the business of taking sides pro or con on the issues of our day.
And as for Apple, you make computers and telephones and all kinds of gadgets that have made my life easier. Stick to what you do best. Stay out of political issues that divide Americans and do what you do best and let me decide how I want to spend my charitable dollars.
Sorry Bono. Your RED campaign is admirable, but I'm out. Spend your days making great music and encouraging every citizen of the world to give generously out of their own pockets (10% of their income might not be a bad suggestion, I think I read that somewhere)
