As we observe our country’s birthday today, we at KZSM.org celebrate our national identity and uphold the traditions of free speech and expression that shape it. Community radio offers an open forum for information and opinion from all sectors of our society, and some of our programs specifically address our shared commitment to our national ideals.
On “We the People” (Fridays 7-8 p.m.), hosts Rob Roark and Quad D focus on local issues and interview local elected officials, community leaders, activists, educators, and businesspeople. Roark is one of the founders of KZSM.org, and his show, like the station itself, reflects his vision of the true purpose of community radio—"to give the voices to people.” The show exists to provide the information people need to be active in the community. As Roark describes it, “you may not be able to make a difference at the federal level, but you can at the local, regional, and state level.”
On “We the People” this past Friday, he honored the upcoming holiday by reading the full text of the Declaration of Independence, as he does every year. “People need to hear the strong words that founded this country,” he explains.
