By Dr. MarkAlain Dery of WHIV radio
The Grassroots Radio Conference (GRC) 2024 was held from September 26th to 29th at the historic Gallier Hall in New Orleans, Louisiana. This annual gathering brought together community radio stations, independent media outlets, and grassroots organizations nationwide. The conference served as a platform for networking, learning, and collaboration among those dedicated to the principles of community media.
The theme for GRC2024 was “Using Our Platforms to Protect Democracy,” emphasizing the critical role of grassroots media in advocating for marginalized communities and holding power accountable. The conference aimed to empower diverse voices often overlooked by mainstream media and strategize how these platforms can contribute to a more just and fair society.
The Grassroots Radio Conference 2024 was chaired by Liana Elliott, a prominent community advocate and co-founder of 102.3 FM WHIV-LP. Dr. MarkAlain Déry, also a co-founder of 102.3 FM WHIV-LP, served as the co-chair for the event. The hosting duties were sponsored by 102.3 FM WHIV-LP and 99.1 FM WXDR-LP, with valuable assistance from 91.5 FM WTUL, Tulane University’s radio station. This collaborative effort among local stations demonstrated the strength of community media in New Orleans. It underscored the commitment of these organizations to amplify diverse voices and uphold democratic values through grassroots initiatives.
Gallier Hall, a Greek Revival architectural masterpiece, was completed in 1853 and served as New Orleans’ City Hall for over a century. This historic building has witnessed many pivotal events in the city’s history, including hosting presidents and international royalty. Its elegant setting made it an ideal backdrop for the Grassroots Radio Conference 2024. The hall’s classical architecture and rich history provided a sense of gravitas and inspiration, aligning perfectly with the conference’s theme of using media platforms to protect democracy. The venue’s blend of historical significance and modern amenities ensured that it honored the past while meeting the needs of contemporary events like GRC2024.
The first night of the Grassroots Radio Conference 2024 featured an engaging session with WHIV DJ Jimi Palacios interviewing WWOZ’s program director, Murf Reeves. Reeves discussed his journey into radio and how his passion for music and community brought him to WWOZ, a station dedicated to broadcasting New Orleans’ rich musical heritage. The discussion highlighted the vital role of radio in preserving local culture and connecting diverse audiences to the vibrant sounds of New Orleans, including jazz and blues. The night concluded with an excellent buffet featuring cocktails, Mediterranean food, and lively dancing DJ’d by long-time WHIV DJ EJ Bradley, creating a festive atmosphere that perfectly complemented the spirit of the Grassroots Radio Conference.
The following morning, the conference began with New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell delivering an inspiring speech about the vital role of community radio and independent media in fostering civic engagement and cultural expression. Mayor Cantrell emphasized that grassroots media amplifies diverse voices and addresses regional issues, highlighting its importance in strengthening community ties and promoting democracy. To conclude her address, she presented WHIV co-founders Dr. MarkAlain Déry and Liana Elliott with a proclamation declaring September 27th, 2024, as Grassroots Radio Day in New Orleans!
The first-morning keynote session at the Grassroots Radio Conference 2024 featured two inspiring speakers. Progressive broadcaster Thom Hartmann emphasized the need for a robust media landscape with diverse voices to balance right-wing dominance. Following him, Louisiana’s Monica Pierre, a three-time Emmy award-winning journalist, shared her journey in media, highlighting her commitment to storytelling and empowerment. Her motivating insights set an enthusiastic tone for the day’s events.
The first day of the Grassroots Radio Conference 2024 included engaging workshops and panels focused on essential topics in community radio and independent media. The sessions covered discussions on media ethics, diversity, inclusivity, and the latest technologies for improving broadcasting. In the afternoon, panels discussed strategies for community media advocacy and the challenges of managing community radio stations.
The final talk of the first day of the Grassroots Radio Conference 2024 featured a panel discussing how misinformation can undermine policy efforts, highlighting its impact on public perception and outcomes. The night concluded with a vibrant New Orleans event. Mardi Gras Indians engaged attendees in discussions about their cultural importance. This was complemented by lively music, a light buffet, and cocktails celebrating the city’s rich heritage.
The opening session of the second day of the Grassroots Radio Conference 2024 featured three impactful keynote speakers. Sam Seder of The Majority Report discussed the vital role of independent media in ensuring accountability and transparency. David Sirota, founder of The Lever, stressed the need to engage with those who typically avoid political discussions, urging relatable communication of political issues. Lastly, Wajahat Ali addressed the ongoing problem of structural racism in the U.S. All three speakers highlighted the inspirational potential of independent radio to build community and empower individuals through informed dialogue.
On the second day of the Grassroots Radio Conference 2024, held on Saturday, attendees participated in a range of practical workshops designed for community radio practitioners. The sessions addressed essential topics such as legal and compliance, the annual LPFM roundtable, and promoting diversity in programming. Panels also covered youth in radio, community-led radio, fundraising, and ethical economics. A strong focus was placed on utilizing radio to defend democracy, emphasizing the crucial role of community radio during crises. Additionally, a segment was tailored for new LPFM permit holders, providing foundational knowledge for establishing and managing radio stations.
The Saturday evening festivities featured an engaging interview between Dr. MarkAlain Déry and Pulitzer Prize-winning author Chris Rose. Rose discussed his journey in journalism, starting in the 1970s at his high school’s radio station, which sparked his passion for broadcasting. He reflected on his impactful reporting for the Times-Picayune during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and his commitment to New Orleans. The conversation highlighted his achievements and inspired attendees to value grassroots media’s role in shaping narratives and building community connections. After the interview, a traditional New Orleans brass band performed, leading attendees in a lively second-line parade through Gallier Hall. This festive procession celebrated New Orleans culture, culminating in a gathering where guests enjoyed food, cocktails, and dancing to the vibrant sounds of local music.
The following day, the Grassroots Radio Conference 2024 wrapped up with a lively gospel brunch DJed by WHIV’s Patrice Esteen. Following the brunch, Scott Galante, a WHIV show host and attorney, discussed founder’s syndrome in community radio. He highlighted its potential to stifle growth and innovation, advocating for inclusive leadership and adaptability. Galante’s insights gave attendees essential tools for fostering sustainability and community engagement beyond the founders’ vision.
This year’s key element was that the GRC focused on youth and college involvement, welcoming students from Tulane, Nicholls State, and Delgado Community College. A notable event was the screening of “35,000 Watts: The Story of College Radio,” which highlighted college radio’s influence on youth culture and musicians’ careers. This was followed by a Q&A session, emphasizing the conference’s dedication to nurturing future media professionals.
The Grassroots Radio Conference 2024 was remarkable, drawing over 200 participants from over 70 radio stations across 35 states. Set in the historic Gallier Hall in New Orleans, the conference highlighted the city’s lively music and rich culture while fostering community among attendees. The theme, “Using Our Platforms to Protect Democracy,” resonated deeply during the sessions, motivating independent media and community radio practitioners to elevate diverse voices and advocate for marginalized communities. Participants left feeling reinvigorated and united in their understanding of the significant impact their work can have. The GRC 2024 celebrated the strength of grassroots media, underscoring its vital role in creating a fairer and more equitable society.
Featured top parade photo by Ursula Ruedenberg.