Letter to Amtrak

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE — May 7, 2014 — Washington, DC

May 7, 2014

Amtrak , National Railroad Partnership Corporation
Mr. Joseph H. Boardman, President and CEO
Mr. Joseph H. McHugh, Vice President, Government Affairs and Corporate Communications
Mr. Anthony R. Coscia, Chairman of the Board
60 Massachusetts Ave., NE
Washington, DC 20002

Gentlemen:

The Woodhull Sexual Freedom Alliance has been delighted to support Amtrak for many, many years through an affinity program hosted by JP Morgan Chase.  However, we must call your attention to the disturbing practices of Chase with regard to customers involved in erotic expression.

A simple Internet search will reveal that, in response to prior claims of discrimination, Amtrak has appropriately responded by correcting its policies or behaviors, once notified of the issue.

Because we believe Amtrak would be sensitive to one of its partners being involved in a situation that is clearly discriminatory, we felt compelled to contact both you at Amtrak and your partner, JP Morgan Chase about an emerging issue of great concern.

We believe that the Amtrak’s values and culture will not support any form of discrimination.  Attached you will find our detailed communication with Chase about denial of credit to members of the adult entertainment industry.  It is our understanding that this is a widespread effort undertaken by Chase, at the behest of the U.S. Department of Justice, to suppress access to the banking system by adult entertainment performers and businesses, without regard to the legality or legitimacy of such businesses. Such actions directed to individuals involved in the production or sale of constitutionally-protected erotic entertainment reeks of censorship.

We hope that you will join us in monitoring this situation and, if necessary, support non-discrimination by withdrawing your program should JP Morgan Chase not re-consider its position with regard to these customers.

Sincerely,
Ricci J. Levy, Executive Director

cc:  Lawrence G. Walters, Esq., General Counsel
Hardy Haberman, Chairman of the Board

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