If there is a justified negative report on a clown’s act, it should be established whether or not the culprit is a member of the World Clown Association or other clown organization. When the offender is not a member (as hopefully is the case), that should be immediately established, before any further comments are made.
Many times it is better to redirect or deflect, rather than be defensive. Too many times a defensive response can be reinterpreted negatively or repeated and highlighted in such a way as to keep the issue in prominence. It is better then, to make a neutral response and let the issue fade.

Whenever possible the point should be made that “clown” has become the ambiguous title given to anyone wearing a red nose, wig and “funny” clothing. The word clown or a photo of a clown is an attention grabber, and that is often the primary goal and purpose of most media reports and usages. The word is used detrimentally for politicians and many others because of their perceived ridiculous behavior. Criminals have dressed as clowns to cover up their identities but they are just hiding behind a costume and mask for anonymity.

The World Clown Association has a Code of Ethics for our members to abide by. However, should something arise, we have procedures to suspend or expel members from the association. If the offender is somehow connected to the World Clown Association or another clown organization, an effort should be made to publish the outcome of their being admonished or even expelled, realizing that there are many people in this world that make mistakes. Some of those mistakes are much more serious than others. All clowns should not be judged on the basis of the action of a single individual that has done something wrong. There have been incidences with all walks of life, police, military, politicians and doctors. It does not matter what field. We cannot control everyone and know what they do at all times. We can point out that this is the act of an individual person, not the action of a clown, lawyer, doctor, actor, minister, carpenter, or news reporter.
Finally, if being questioned by anyone in media coverage about such a negative report, we should turn the conversation to cover the many positive things done by the clowns in the World Clown Association, bringing laughter and cheer to many, working in hospitals and nursing homes, working for countless charity events, and being positive role models for clean comedy at all times.