HILLSIDE, N.J. (WPIX) - A large billboard on a stretch of a busy New Jersey highway endorsing the idea of suicide is causing quite the uproar with locals and passersby.
The 15-by-49 foot billboard reading, "My Life. My Death. My Choice. FinalExitNetwork.org" was put up June 28 on Route 22 and faces eastbound traffic.
The campaign -- which has also been launched in California and Florida -- is paid for by the Final Exit Network, a nationwide group that reportedly provides guidance to adults seeking to end a life of constant pain from incurable illness.
The group claims both New Jersey and San Francisco were selected because a majority of people in the area would be open to the message. Organizers say Florida was picked because of its large elderly population.
"Everyone has a right to make their own decisions," Colby Johnston, of Elmwood Park, told PIX 11 News. "We all make our own choices."
However, not everyone is on board with the idea.
"It's horrible!" exclaimed passerby Shonda Harris. "Why would you put up a billboard with such a immoral message? It should be taken down."
So far, most criticism has come from suicide prevention counselors and the Catholic Church.
It's not clear how long the campaign will last.
http://www.wpix.com/news/local/wpix-suicide-billboard,0,224416.story