The Brattleboro, VT daily newspaper The Reformer published an editorial today calling on Vermont’s Sen. Patrick Leahy and Rep. Bernie Sanders to support Radio Free Brattleboro. Both men have been outspoken proponents of free speech causes, with Leahy being honored for his work in support of the Freedom of Information Act, and Sanders being one of the Congressional leaders in opposing big media monopolies.
“Both these issues are important in upholding the kind of free, strong, independent media that is crucial to the health of democracy. So, too, are small, community radio outlets like rfb, that are willing to air viewpoints that are often marginalized by mainstream media organizations.
“Because rfb is technically a pirate station, under federal law it cannot ever receive an FCC low-watt license. The station, therefore, is in a no-win situation. It needs heavyweight support from those who wield power in Washington.
“The FCC needs to hear a clear signal from our lawmakers that their Brattleboro constituents support this low-watt station. May we suggest that tonight’s gathering would be an excellent platform for Sen. Leahy to send such a message. “
FRB is also asking Vermont-based supporters to call Sen. Leahy:
“We need you to call Senator Leahy’s office today in Washington, DC at 1-202-224-
4242 right away to demand that he address the plight of his community radio
station in Southern Vermont during his speech tonight at the Radio and
Television News Directors Foundation. Senator Leahy is receving a Leadership
Award for his First Amendment work in supporting the Freedom of Information
Act. “