Media ownership rule change compromises journalism

A recent decision made by the Federal Communications Commission is frightening for all U.S. citizens. In December, the FCC passed a measure that would allow for further media consolidation.

The measure overturned a 30-year ban on one ownership of the newspapers, television or radio stations in one market. FCC Commissioner Michael J. Copps, one of two commissioners who voted against the measure, gave a heartfelt and alarming speech on the matter.

In a speech he delivered Dec. 18 he said, “Powerful companies are using political muscle to sneak through rule changes that let them profit at the expense of the public interest.”

This ruling brings us one large step closer to Orwell’s “1984.” The integrity of journalism has already been compromised greatly throughout this administration. The latest decision by the FCC will have lasting effects on our ability as citizens to gain access to the truth.

Let us not allow this decision to go by unnoticed.

Summer Starr

Olinda