New Jersey Legislative Caucus Takes Aim at Jersey Shore

Joining the denouncement issued by the multiple Italian-American anti-defamation groups over the portrayal of Italians in MTV’s Jersey Shore, is the New Jersey Italian American Legislative Caucus. In a letter sent Tuesday to the president of MTV parent owner Viacom, Philippe Dauman, the members of the New Jersey legislature complained that the show “promotes ethnic stereotypes of Italian Americans that are offensive and untrue.” Caucus chairman Joseph Vitale asked that the show be canceled immediately.

“Rather than profit off ethnic stereotypes and derogatory myths about Italian Americans, MTV and its parent company, Viacom, should do the socially responsible thing and pull the plug on Jersey Shore,” the letter read. “Not only is the program wildly offensive, but it diminishes the accomplishments and contributions of Italian Americans in New Jersey and across the nation.