Vision
New Orleanians are actively engaged in the process of rebuilding their city, yet they have no venue for sharing and amplifying their ideas and concerns. As the cost and technical barriers are relatively low, radio is the ideal venue for sharing information and creating dialog in the local community. However, in New Orleans, the concentration of media ownership has failed to adequately serve the community. Two companies (Clear Channel and Entercom) hold thirteen radio licenses between them, accounting for one-third of the local radio market. Three of these stations are broadcasting the same content. Every talk format station in New Orleans broadcasts national partisan programs. While some local hosts address community issues, there is virtually no community-produced programming on the local airwaves.
New Orleans needs a talk radio station that is operated by the community. Imagine a station run like WWOZ but using a talk format instead of music. Such a station, hosting a wide range of citizens and perspectives, will be a vital component New Orleans’ recovery. A coalition of community-based organizations, working together, can launch such a station and provide the content. Let’s join together and make this happen.