Prometheus Radio Project
The Prometheus Radio Project builds participatory radio as a tool for social justice organizing and a voice for community expression. To that end, we demystify media policy and technology, advocate for a more just media system, and help grassroots organizations build communications infrastructure to strengthen their communities and movements.
Prometheus values radio because it is easy to produce, free to consume, and accessible to more people across the world than any other mass media. Radio does not require expensive equipment, literacy, or a broadband connection. We believe in participatory radio because it is a proven tool for movement building and cultural expression. Prometheus supports community groups at every stage of the process of building community radio stations, facilitates public participation in the FCC regulatory process, and sponsors events promoting media democracy and low power FM radio.
Prometheus is available to speak and give workshops on the following topics (and more – just ask!):
Transmitter Building Workshop
Building a radio transmitter is a great way to learn about basic electronics and radio waves. In this workshop, we'll talk about some of the theory behind radio transmission and build small transmitters that can broadcast across a room. No radio or electronics background is needed!
Community Mapping as Community Organizing
This workshop will highlight the newly launched People Powered Radio Project, demonstrating how participatory mapping can leverage support for specific campaigns. With two simple tools, a flip video camera and Google maps, participants will learn how to record, edit, and upload their own testimonies to strategize for their own struggles.
Fight for the Airwaves: Radio Reclamation
Since the creation of public radio broadcasting in the early 20th century; women, people of color and other marginalized groups have been consistently denied access to the airwaves. Since that time, communities have challenged their exclusion by broadcasting unlicensed radio stations and pressuring the government to create a low power radio service for non-commercial use. Through brief videos and short audio documentaries, the Prometheus Radio Project will lead participants on a tour of media justice struggles with a focus on people’s continued fight for the airwaves.
Put your Hands on the Radio
Armed with a small transmitter, antenna, a couple of microphones and a mixer, people can unleash the power of radio as an essential communications tool. In this workshop, participants will learn what technology is needed to start your own broadcast, Internet radio station, or podcast. They will also learn what vital tool radio can play in emergency situations. The presentation will include a screening of Ya Se Pudo, a short film about a Radio Barnraising with the Northwest Treeplanters and Farmworkers United who use their low power FM station to advance immigrant rights and labor justice.
