National Association of the Deaf

In a press release on September 8, 2009, Netflix announced that “The Wizard of Oz” movie will be available for download, for free, for everyone on October 3, 2009.  The NAD responded by asking Netflix to provide a captioned version of this movie for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing.  We encourage you to advocate for access. 

Here is what the NAD said:

Wednesday, September 09, 2009

Ms. Fisher –

Thank you for making "The Wizard of Oz" available for viewing on October 3, 2009. (Press Release September 8, 2009).

This classic movie appeals to a wide range of people – from children to senior citizens – many of whom have a hearing loss.  They, and their families, will be able to do enjoy this presentation if Netflix makes available a "closed captioned" (CC) version of "The Wizard of Oz."  We are confident that captions are available for this production.  We are also confident that captions will be available on the Warner Bros. Home Entertainment DVD, though they may be called English language "subtitles" for people who are deaf or hard of hearing (SDH).  These captions are usually available by selecting SDH from the DVD set up menu.

We respectfully request that Netflix enable people to choose to view a captioned version of this classic film.  This can be accomplished by placing a "CC" icon on your webpage that is linked to the captioned version.

This event provides a unique opportunity for Netflix to demonstrate its commitment to providing accessible entertainment to 36 million Americans who are deaf or hard of hearing.  We want to be included in this 70th anniversary celebration of "The Wizard of Oz" with our children and families.

Please advise whether Netflix will provide a "CC" version of "The Wizard of Oz" on October 3rd.   If so, we would gladly assist in disseminating that information widely.

Thank you for your consideration.

Rosaline

Rosaline Crawford
Director, Law and Advocacy Center
National Association of the Deaf
8630 Fenton Street, Suite 820
Silver Spring, MD 20910

 

Here is a sample message you can send:

Dear Netflix:

Thank you for making "The Wizard of Oz" available for viewing on October 3, 2009.  

I want to be included in this 70th anniversary celebration of "The Wizard of Oz" with my family, friends, and everyone else.  To be included, I need closed captions or English subtitles to understand and enjoy this classic movie. 

Please provide a captioned version of "The Wizard of Oz" on October 3rd.

Thank you.

Call or send your message by e-mail to:

Catherine Fisher
Director, Communications
Netflix, Inc.
408-540-3847
cafisher@netflix.com