Why minority-owned media matters

WHY MINORITY-OWNED MEDIA MATTERS
[SOURCE: The Boston - Bay State Banner, AUTHOR: Sens. John F. Kerry (D-MA) and Barack Obama (D-IL)]
[Commentary] The bedrock of America’s greatest advances -- the foundation of what we know today are defining values -- was formed not by cheering on things as they were, but by taking them on and demanding change. The thoughtful exchange of diverse viewpoints not only helps guarantee our freedom as individuals, it ensures those in power can be held accountable for all that they do. But to engage in the debates that have always made America stronger, it takes a stage and a platform for discussion — and never before have these platforms been more endangered. In recent years, we have witnessed unprecedented consolidation in our traditional media outlets. Large mergers and corporate deals have reduced the number of voices and viewpoints in the media marketplace. As we look toward the future, we must ensure that all voices in our diverse nation have the opportunity to be heard. One important way to do this is to expand the ownership stake of women-owned, minority-owned and small businesses in our media outlets. For too long now, the FCC has been putting corporate interests ahead of the people’s interests. It’s time for that to change. We need to not only create the opportunity for minority-owned businesses to participate in the market, but we also need to help the minority entrepreneur who wants to enter this business succeed. We will keep fighting until we have a free and open media that represents every American in our diverse nation.
http://www.baystatebanner.com/issues/2007/10/25/opinion10250758.htm