Central Committee Backs CPR Media Resolution

Last night, the San Diego County Democratic Central Committee adopted a resolution on Media Diversity drafted by the Campaign for Progressive Radio-San Diego (CPR-SD).  We plan to submit to the CA Democratic Party for consideration at the Annual Convention in Sacramento April 24-26.

Following is the text of the Resolution adopted by the SDCDP last night (and attached).  CPR-SD is an outgrowth of the Save KLSD movement, we have continued to stay loosely organized to provide whatever support we can for progressive radio in San Diego, and more broadly, progressive media. 

Resolution for Media Diversification

WHEREAS: The quality of American journalism across all media has substantially declined over the past several years, particularly since the media deregulation of 1996.

WHEREAS:  The number of journalists and investigative reporters has decreased at an alarming rate. 

WHEREAS:  The number of companies that own and control the mass media decreased from about 81 companies in 1981 to 6 monolithic conglomerates in 1996. Local broadcast journalism and media production have steadily vanished from the airwaves, resulting in a less informed electorate to the detriment of the public interest and our democratic model.     

WHEREAS:  Less than 8 percent of radio stations and 3 percent of television stations are owned by traditionally under-represented interests.*  

THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED:  That the San Diego County Democratic Party adopts a position in favor of diverse media ownership as well as improved and increased journalism by encouraging media reform and promoting activism in furtherance of this position. 

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the San Diego County Democratic Party adopt a policy calling upon the President, the Congress, and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to repair the damage that resulted from the unprecedented concentration of mass media ownership in the US, which may involve, but is not limited to, exploring the application of antitrust laws, proscriptions against restraint of trade, and the protections of ‘free press’ contained within the First Amendment.

 

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* FreePress.net 2008

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