Comic Book Legal Defence Fund acquires Comics Code Authority Seal

The Comics Code Authority Seal has been acquired by the Comic Book Legal Defence Fund (CBLDF).

Comic Magazine Association of America previously administrated the approval stamp, having introduced it in the 1950s.

DC Comics and Archie Comics abandoned the rating system earlier this year, prior to reports that it has been defunct since 2009. However, the branding still appears on titles from other publishers, as well as t-shirts and other products.

CBLDF is expected to use the symbol of censorship to support their First Amendment defence work. The organisation will also be entitled to revenue from the sale of merchandise bearing the stamp.

Charles Brownstein, CBLDF executive director, said, "As we reflect upon the challenges facing intellectual freedom during Banned Books Week, the Comics Code Seal is a reminder that it's possible for an entire creative field to have those rights curtailed because of government, public and market pressures.

"Fortunately, today comics are no longer constrained as they were in the days of the Code, but that's not something we can take for granted. Banned Books Week reminds us that challenges to free speech still occur, and we must always be vigilant in fighting them."

The Comic Book Legal Defence Fund is a non-profit organisation founded in 1986 dedicated to protecting the First Amendment rights of the comics field.