The Songwriters Guild of America has joined Chris Castle in filing an
amicus brief with the Supreme Court of the United States in support of Oracle America. Oracle is suing Google over alleged copyright violation
stemming from Google's use of Java APIs.
The brief asserts that
Google's ever-expanding definition of 'fair use' is nothing more than an
attempt to use the work of creators while avoiding paying for these
works (despite how these used works expand Google's multi-billion-dollar
profit base).
"This suit, brought by Oracle, is fighting for
the ability of programmers and other creators to make a living wage from
their work," stated SGA President Rick Carnes.
"Giants
like Google cry 'fair use' when they'd prefer not to pay for
something--and then try to use their considerable power to codify this
excuse for non-payment into the language of law. And it's not just
bigger businesses who are affected by copyright infringement. Indie
creators are having their copyrights violated but they don't have the
financial resources to fight giants like Google and others. That's why
the suit brought by Oracle is so important to all types of creator," said Carnes.
"It's
also why the CASE Act is so important. The CASE Act allows indie
creators to sue -- in a Copyright Small Claims Court -- those who have
used their work without pay or permission."
Download the amicus brief submitted to the Supreme Court by Chris Castle and the SGA.
