Jeannine Etter Candidate Statement

“If you want something done,” they say, “you've got to do it yourself.” Within democracy that is very, very true. It is difficult for people to people to represent you if you are not there to say “This is how I feel (and these are the thousands of people who agree with me).” Participation is the key to representation. I would like to see us all participate in the very thing that we claim to be most valuable to us all, and the very thing that seems to be in crisis. There is a crisis far larger that is going on within our global communities that is being reflected in the water we all drink and the air we all breathe. This is a collective responsibility. There are so many more perspectives that we need to hear that broaden our perspectives and our ability to act in a self-sustaining manner.

As a graduate apprentice (1994), I can remember many of the “old” staff members, their struggles, hopes and dreams for this station. I happen to be one of those dreams. This is for those who pushed, fought and sacrificed, paving the way for me to be here so that I could pave the way for others. As you all may know, the Apprenticeship program is geared towards helping women and people of color get radio skills in order to balance the lack of representation of certain disenfranchised communities. Well, I represent three: African-American, Women and the Hip Hop generation. As a member of the LSB I will ensure the democracy of the decision-making process, make sure that the airwaves are balanced, bring in new communities of listeners that corporate radio has also attempted to target, and work toward securing a permanent General Manager and Program Director.

I believe that the more power (privilege) you have, the more responsibility you have to be a servant. As a member of the Local Station Board, I look forward to serving you.

Thank you for taking your time in reading.

In Unity,
Jeannine Etter