NABOB: AM Radio is Crucial Resource for AA Community

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, May 12, 2023

Earlier this week, the National Association of Black Owned Broadcasters (NABOB) sent a letter to Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-4), Chairman of the House Congressional Black Caucus, expressing concern regarding the removal of AM radio from new car models and some electric vehicles. Of the top 20 automakers producing vehicles in the U.S., eight of them have removed AM broadcast from their EVs with one major automaker removing the AM radio from their entire fleet of non-commercial vehicles.

"This represents a huge setback for AM radio stations serving the needs of the African American community, as AM radio is a crucial medium for delivering content that is culturally relevant and often missing from other formats," wrote NABOB President/CEO James L Winston. "More broadly, the removal of AM radio from electric vehicles would be a step backward in broadcasters' efforts to promote diversity and inclusivity in media. It would reinforce the dominance of mainstream media outlets and limit the diversity of voices and perspectives that are heard."

He continued, "As the trade association representing the interests of African American broadcasters, these actions are deeply concerning, especially because, according to a recent report from Nielsen, over 80 million people in the United States listen to AM radio each month. Additionally, many AM radio stations are locally owned and operated, so they have a vested interest in covering stories that address the unique cultural and local needs of the communities they serve.

"African American have a limited number of media outlets that cater to their specific needs, and AM radio helps to fill that gap by providing a platform for locally produced content that is relevant to their audience. For decades, local Black owned radio stations have provided a voice for underrepresented groups, promoted local businesses, and advocated for social justice and civil rights."

Winston concluded, "We look forward to working with you to maintain AM radio in the dashboard of electric vehicles made in America."