I am writing to express my strong disapproval of any relaxation or elimination of the public interest
limits on media ownership. Localism and diversity are the cornerstones of a democratic media
system, and we cannot afford to compromise them in any way. We don't even have enough localism
and diversity as it is!
The mainstream media needs to be reformed, and the only way it can be brought back is by each
local community putting forth an effort to regain ownership and fight for the truth. The material and
content broadcasted by the mainstream media is detrimental to the health of the general public and
especially the youth. Just because multiple channels are provided, it doesn't mean that any of them
are good choices. What does the consumer do when it does not like any of the media that it is being
fed?
Limits on media consolidation have been a bulwark against the concentration of economic power in
the marketplace of ideas -- a critical part of balancing the public service mission of the media with
their private profit motive. Our democracy requires the free flow of information from a broad range of
diverse voices.
Any public policy seeking to protect diversity in the media must recognize the simple fact that
ownership matters. Media consolidation has already led to declines in local and minority ownership as
well as the homogenization of content in radio and television. Permitting cross-ownership of
newspapers and broadcast stations, or allowing further concentration in local television markets, will
only worsen the problems we already have.
When the FCC attempted to weaken and remove media ownership limits in 2003, millions of
Americans rose up in protest. Congress and the courts ultimately intervened to turn back that
misguided regulatory process.
Now that these same rules are being reconsidered, the FCC should stand firm with the public against
further concentration of media ownership in the hands of the few. A vote against media consolidation
is a vote for democracy.