June is Pride Month at WMNF and around the world. As a proud member of the LGBTQA+ community, I am looking forward to celebrating with my WMNF community and standing in solidarity with our LGBTQA+ friends and neighbors in Tampa Bay.
However, as I write my fifth Pride Month message as GM, it is hard to believe that we now reside in a state where books about this vibrant community are illegal in our public schools. As a former high school teacher in both Florida and New York, I know that a good book can help teens navigate tough feelings. I want good books, curated by talented librarians, available to all students. I want a living First Amendment in our public schools, especially in high schools. When community voices are silenced, that’s when WMNF community radio steps in.
As General Manager at WMNF, I prioritize our commitment to educating community members in best radio practices so their voices can be elevated and amplified. That’s not me speaking as a former educator. That’s what our specific FCC community license says we must do. Best practices include simple techniques like how to speak into a microphone and if you interrupt music programming make sure it is short and relevant. The way people find music and news has changed – and as radio professionals, we have adapted our best practices, too. That is why WMNF has expanded across multiple media platforms to meet people where they listen. We stay on top of trends, evolve, and educate so that local community issues are heard. Some experts do not have a PhD. At community radio, often the people living the issue have the most valuable perspective…