Over the next year, we will be developing and launching a brand new Low-Power FM (LPFM) radio station. 98.9 FM will be located in, build specifically for, and developed in collaboration with the communities of South Minneapolis. LPFM stations broadcast at only 100 watts, so the signal will reach an area roughly 5 miles in each direction...community radio at its most community. Working with a coal
ition of neighbors and nonprofits, we will create a tool for sharing news, music, storytelling, debate, and public health/safety announcements with this densely-populated, ethnically diverse area. But we're not just interested in broadcasting out to the community, we want to invite them in. With recording equipment available for loan, free media skills training classes, and 3 computer labs outfitted with audio editing software, we will give community members everything they need to share their stories, cultures, and collective concerns in their own voices. Programming will be multilingual and authentic, a representation of the many diverse communities that share South Minneapolis. LPFM is a transformative tool that allows neighbors to build their own unfiltered information distribution networks and allows stories to be told in a way that empowers communities without perpetuating stereotypes or excluding traditionally marginalized voices. It also allows neighborhoods to address specific challenges in their communities and respond quickly to local emergencies. This project will teach transferable work skills, foster pride in self and community, encourage cross-cultural dialogue, share health and safety information in multiple languages, and create an outlet for local artists to share their gifts with a large, diverse audience. There are a variety of ways that neighbors and neighborhood organizations can get involved in this project. If you are interested in learning how to host your own show, helping us make important decisions about the future of the station, or volunteering to help us get the word out, please contact us here: [email protected]
