As a writer and game designer, I have experienced firsthand the potential of characters to inspire and evoke creativity. Jack Sparrow, a character who is beloved by millions, is no different. When Johnny Depp appears in children's hospitals as Jack, the joy on the children's faces is evident - a creative, playful, and positive outlet being used to inject a little happiness into an often challenging situation. Unfortunately, under current copyright restrictions, the freedom to use this character in creative and artistic pursuits is severely limited.

Disney currently owns exclusive rights to Jack Sparrow, which restricts Johnny Depp, myself, and others from using him freely. By granting the character of Jack Sparrow a Creative Commons License, Disney would unleash an immense potential for artistic and educational development while maintaining its proprietary rights to the Pirates of the Caribbean films. This would allow billions of people to express their creativity, educate others and provide joy by using the image of Jack Sparrow without fear of a lawsuit.

There are tons of works under Creative Commons licenses that benefit educators, artists, and creators of open content around the world. Imagine if Jack Sparrow could join these ranks, enriching the global creative commons whilst also continuing his role in the film industry.

Making Jack Sparrow available under a Creative Commons License will allow this cherished character to touch and inspire even more lives, and create a global understanding that creativity and inspiration should never be restricted. Please, show your support for free expression and the power of creativity - sign the petition.