Anti-racism message goes global in run-up to European Election on 101.4FM

OBV in collaboration with Community Media Association and AMARC-Europe (the European Section of the World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters) broadcast live to satellite and Internet on UN anti racist day (March 21st).

The multi-lingual broadcast will cover a variety of issues by Internet, satellite and short-wave radio and will be re-broadcast by radio stations throughout Europe, Asia, Australia, and the Pacific.

The broadcast provides an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of anti-racism and to forge alliances and partnerships with anti-racist groups and pro-active media to rally against racism and promote political participation.

Steve Buckley (Director of the Community Media Association) stated: "Institutionalised racism is deeply rooted in Britain. The media are not immune. With this broadcast community media are pro-actively challenging and combating racism. Other media should take note and follow our example"

Brain Carty (Co-ordinator of AMARC - Europe) added: "This is the biggest ever mobilisation of radios to combat racism. On the 21st March the airways throughout Europe and the world will fill with the voices of refugee, migrants, blacks and ethnic minorities - Voices Without Frontiers. Community radio stations throughout Europe and the world are linking up with anti-racist actions and initiatives in order to celebrate diversity in our societies and take a stand against the spread of extreme right thinking".

Lee Jasper (OBV Chair), stated: "This represents a unique opportunity for Operation Black Vote to spread its message of mobilisation of the black vote in the UK, Europe and throughout the world. This represents the first unified and global attempt highlighting and challenging racism throughout the world in all its form. Operation Black Vote is proud to represent the black communities of the UK and Europe, in this exciting and sensational event".

The broadcast goes live to radio on the 20th March, the eve of UN anti-racist day, and the last day of voter registration for the European elections.