We at KZSM 104.1 FM/KZSM.org have now expanded the scope of our programming with “Democracy Now!” (Monday to Friday 9 to 10 a.m.) “A daily, global, independent news hour anchored by award-winning journalists Amy Goodman and Juan Gonzalez, ‘Democracy Now!’ presents daily headlines followed by indepth discussions from a rich diversity of people and perspectives rarely heard from in mainstream media. Guests include international journalists, scholars, scientists, authors, analysts, artists, filmmakers and ordinary people who are most affected by the news events,” according to their website.
“Democracy Now!” has aired weekdays since 1996 on a steadily growing number of public and community stations. We’re joining more than 1,400 radio and television stations worldwide that broadcast “Democracy Now!” a show with a rich history of reporting on major events from the inside, as they happen, and providing insights not always available on other media. In fact, their ongoing coverage of important events is routinely picked up by mainstream commercial news networks. “Since inception, ‘Democracy Now!’ has been covering the movements changing America,” as their website explains.
The 59-minute broadcast begins with eight to ten minutes of breaking news headlines, followed by in-depth interviews that allow for extended discussions, analysis and debates around the important news of the day. A couple of one-minute music breaks punctuate the hour and often resonate with the subjects of discussion, promoting thought in a different way.
“Democracy Now!” aligns closely with KZSM’s vision: “to create and serve an open, well-informed community where all voices can be heard and appreciated.” We proudly broadcast the many voices of our community — whether they’re performing music or discussing issues relevant to our residents. Now, we are adding voices from across the globe — voices that might not be heard anywhere else. Amy Goodman, founder and host of “Democracy Now!” described the program as a global newscast that has “people speaking for themselves. You turn to us for voices you won’t hear anywhere else.”
In keeping with their principles of openness, the creators of “Democracy Now!” do not charge stations for their broadcasts, unlike other news services. So, we can now bring you global news five days a week despite our dwindling resources. If you can, please help keep “Democracy Now!” and all our other programming on the air — find the Donate button on KZSM.org, or send a check to 216 North Guadalupe. And thank you.
