I worked for over a decade for the Library of Congress in

Washington, D.C. and during that time served on a committee for the

USIA that reviewed many government produced films.  We never saw any

CIA films, and as far as I can figure out there was no direct involvement

between the two agencies.  This was during the 1960s to middle 70s.

What the committee did was try to reduce trade barriers for audio

visual materials between countries.  Also, U.S. government-produced films

are usually prohibited from being shown IN THE UNITED STATES.  The

reason given being that the government is not supposed to lobby at

home for its own political ends (i.e., a particular administration is

supposed to be an elected and representative government, not one that

works only to keep itself in power.)   Overseas, in an Embassy, all

branches of the US government are physically closer, of course.

Sill, I believe there is little or no involvement of the CIA in the

work of the USIA.  It would seem very counterproductive to me. A test

of this belief might be your perception of the VOICE OF AMERICA

broadcasts.  Do they seem very slanted?  We on this continent think

not.  But then, we are ---??--- what was it we agreed on SCREEN-L to

call ourselves?? North Americans (excuse me, CANADA! )

 

                                        JOHN KUIPER

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