As long as I've been a member of DailyKos - more than 10 years now - there has been a long discussion on the ability of the right wing to have ongoing, continuous communication to their base through the near dominance of talk radio formats nationwide. The stranglehold on the airwaves locks in those who drive to work and home in many communities, as well as sets the tone for the discussion of a lot of other media.
Rev. Reuben Eckles, Wichita pastor, realized that discussion of core issues in the progressive and African American community didn't get enough attention. The media quickly rushed through stories that impacted his neighborhoods and the talk on the dial remained steadfast conservative.
There were efforts out there - to work to try and change policies at conservative only radio stations, but even in success, Rev. Eckles realized that such a success still didn't accomplish the end goal: to provide a real news source as well as progressive discussion of social issues.
Along with members of Sunflower Action and other civic leaders, a new idea came about: instead of just trying to change the content of the airwaves that currently broadcast, now is the time to take to the fight - and be the leaders who would work to change that discussion directly - by launching their own radio station that would speak to issues that mattered to those unrepresented.
In speaking with Rev. Eckles, the case was made clear:
"By putting a radio station into our community you do several things. You provide young men and women of color role models in their community to show them that there is a path in broadcast and media for them. We're looking to put our studio into a community that needs uplifting opportunities. It isn't just about getting a signal on the air, it is about giving people a voice."
http://www.bizjournals.com/...
Wichita will soon have a new public radio station, KSUN 95.9 FM, where organizers say listeners will be able to find local African American and other music and nonpolarized discussions of cultural issues.
With an FCC license in hand, they now work toward getting their signal and studio on the air. KSUN, a low-power FM Broadcast with a city wide reach has big plans - but for now they are content to start by changing the discussion in Wichita.
By providing a local morning and afternoon broadcast, combined with a more progressive alternative in mid-day, KSUN believes that it can start informing more residents about what matters in their community.
Like many, I've followed the work of those who moved to "FlushRush" - but now may also be the time to uplift alternatives.
KSUN currently is working on their fundraising for initial buildout of their radio station, and welcomes contributions from any interested in providing real opportunity to the community of Wichita.
KSUN is currently accepting donations for their project here:
https://sca.ourpowerbase.net/...