Six Hollywood Film Studios in California, USA - Safeguarding the Health of Youths

In collaboration with health authorities in California, USA, six major Hollywood film studios -- Warner Bros. Entertainment, Universal Studios, Sony Pictures, Paramount Pictures, Walt Disney Studios, and Twentieth Century Fox, agreed to display anti-smoking advertisements on all movie DVDs rated for youth that contain smoking scenes. These measures were implemented to protect children worldwide from the harmful health risks of smoking. Smoking is now discouraged by the more progressive organizations around the world because of its bad health effects on everyone. These public service announcements are truly a courageous and compassionate endeavor, giving our youth a new perspective on what is important in life.

In recognition of their outstanding protection of the most vulnerable, encouraging a cleaner world, and their enlightened leadership towards a healthier and brighter future for humanity, Master honored the six film studios with the Shining World Hero Award on September 4, Golden Year 5 (2008). The Warner Bros. Entertainment and Universal Studios responded with sincere appreciation of the honor.

In a thank-you letter to Supreme Master Ching Hai from Warner Bros. Entertainment, a representative of the President Alan F. Horn wrote: “… when we read the moving words that were used to describe the reasons our company was recognized for the award, we all felt a sense of pride and gratitude that we work at a company that has a strong commitment to social causes aimed at bettering mankind and the world in which we live.”

We celebrate the great deeds of the six film studios and California health authorities for intelligent foresight and noble leadership in safeguarding the health of present and future generations. May all media and entertainment groups join in this noble lead in creating a healthier and happier society.