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Communities need to be heard – Black Canadians are again fighting to protect the only black-owned radio station

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4 years ago

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BY ALMIRA RIMEZ

While many Canadians are concerned about having their voices silenced by the provisions in the Trudeau government’s C-10, black Canadians are again fighting to protect their lone black-owned media platform. Here we go Again! Black Canadians waited decades and fought tirelessly to have their voices heard. Despite that, G98.7 FM is heading back to court with the Canadian Radio, Television & Telecommunication Commission on May 27th, 2021, to address the proposed sale to Neeti P Ray, owner of C.I.N.A. FM Windsor & C.I.N.A. AM Mississauga.

The legacy of Canadian black-owned broadcast is on the ropes once again, but how did we get here? Canada’s first black-owned broadcast license, CFXJ-FM, otherwise known as Flow 93.5 FM, first hit the air in 2001. Denham Jolly of Milestone Radio held a minority ownership stake. This battle was long and arduous, strewn with elaborate promotional campaigns that included recording a music video entitled “We need it now.” These campaigns designed to raise awareness of the black community’s need to be heard instead was met with a succession of controversial and disheartening decisions.

 This includes the slap in the face the black community received in 1989 when the C.R.T.C. decided in favour of granting yet another Country Music License CISS-FM instead of going urban. This disappointment was experienced again in 1997 when the C.R.T.C. decided to choose in favour of giving the license to a division of C.B.C. radio one instead of Milestone. As racist as some say the United States of America is against black people, black-owned radio has existed there for more than three-quarters of a century. W.E.R.D. was the first black-owned radio station in the United States of America, launched by Jesse Blayton in 1949. Presently in the U.S.,168 of the 10,135 commercial AM and F.M. radio stations are black-owned.

In Canada, for the second time in a little more than a decade, the sole black-owned radio station is in danger of being sold to someone from outside the black community. The year was 2010 when C.F.X.J. (Flow) was sold to CTV’s Globemedia CHUM Radio, to the detriment of the black Canadian community. These circumstances demonstrate that even in a progressive country like Canada, there remain to be glaring racial deficiencies.

In the wake of the tragic death of George Floyd, and dozens of men and women just like him, the United States has been characterized as one of the most racist’s places on earth; however, upon closer examination, some shocking details were revealed. Canada’s issues with institutional racism may be even more pervasive than their neighbor to the south.

After nearly seventy years of black-owned broadcast in the U.S., a medley of governmental policies have been enacted in order to aid smaller and black-owned broadcasters to remain competitive with larger corporate competitors. One of these provisions requires that all American corporations allocate a specific percentage of their marketing dollars to black-owned broadcasters. In Canada, it is the opposite. Many U.S. businesses operating in Canada have been accused of regularly redirecting funds away from black Canadian media to other cultural markets. This circumstance has traditionally made the viability of black-owned broadcasting more difficult, leaving many of this country’s residents without a voice. Some would suggest this to be the purpose of the practice. History often repeats itself, but one would think that it wouldn’t have occurred again so soon.

2011 Intercity Broadcast Network and their founder Jamaican-born Fitzroy Gordon received approval from the C.R.T.C. to launch CKFG-FM despite the objections from many of Canada’s mainstay media broadcasters. C.B.C. forcibly noted their objections while Rogers Media, Astral Media, Bell Media & Durham Radio all filed comments with the C.R.T.C. in support of the C.B.C.’s views. Was this the old boys club sticking up for a member, or was their objection warranted? Regardless of what one may think about this consortium, they demonstrated a level of resistance to the granting of this license that had never been seen before.

In Canada, black-owned broadcasters are targeted in this manner, often by many of the industry elites. The same companies that have taken a knee and professed to be in support of black rights initiatives are often the very same that have been accused of undermining black business. On the other hand, there have been a number of commercial companies whose support of G98.7 FM was instrumental to their success. The allocation of hundreds of thousands of their advertising dollars to the station helped to bolster some of their best revenue-generating years ever seen.

In 2019, approximately one week after the death and before the funeral of the sole founder of G98.7 FM Fitzroy Gordon, former C.F.O. Delford Blythe of Jamrock accounting filed an emergency order to gain control of the radio station. Mr.Blythe was fired from the company in 2015 for misconduct amidst a succession of allegations of maleficence concerning his accounting conduct. The allegations outlined in testimony given by the former C.E.O. detailed his failure to pay the C.R.T.C.’s C.C.D. Fee’s from 2012-2015, essentially the duration of his tenure as C.F.O. at G98.7 FM.

These allegations also provided implicit details of the alleged improprieties committed by the C.F.O. This included non-payment on crucial expenditures like the lease on the broadcast antenna at T.D. Manulife Centre in Toronto which went unpaid for several years. The same individual who went to the media to complain about G98.7 FM maleficence was, according to previous testimony of former C.E.O. and Founder Fitzroy Gordon, the same individual responsible for the alleged governance.

Despite that fact, media stories released by a series of media outlets, including The Globe & Mail, quoted Mr.Blythe as their sole source for the alleged mismanagement. This raised the ire of many of Canada’s industry elites, including broadcasting legend Bob Markowitz Sr. former colleague of the late Fitzroy Gordon that spoke about his testimony on the alleged discrepancies.

These accusations alleged Mr. Blythe’s utilization of his G98.7 FM expense account to pay for a helicopter ride date with a young lady, a trip to London, England for the Olympics, and even for his elaborate 50th Birthday Celebration in 2012. After the filing of the emergency order by Mr.Blythe, G98.7 FM owed less than $300,000.00 today, that amount is estimated to be more than $2,000,000.00.

According to sources close to the circumstance, when A. Farber & Partners appointed court-ordered control of CKFG-FM to Mr.Blythe in December of 2019, G98.7 FM owed a little less than $400,000.00; the question remains what happened afterward? How have the rumours of egos and infighting impacted the plight of the only black-owned broadcast network in the country? Who is responsible? Will Canada lose its only black-owned network? How much did the emergency motion end up costing G98.7 FM? How were these legal costs covered? Is this the end of Gospel Morning? How did an individual who invested $0 end up with 19% ownership of the said company? These questions and more are what we set out to discover.

New proposed owner of G98.7 FM Neeti P Ray whose Mississauga based C.I.N.A. AM broadcasts 80% of their content in Arabic provided the following statement,

“The applicant proposes that the station operate on the same terms and conditions that currently apply to ensure continuity and to establish a record of compliance.

The station has the important mandate of serving black communities in Toronto (those of the Caribbean and African heritage) with spoken word programming and music. The applicant is committed to continuing to meet this mandate and to fulfill all applicable conditions of license.”

 Mr. Neeti P Ray went on to state, “It would perhaps be premature to speculate on the likely plans in future that would ensure that the objectives of the station are best achieved. More importantly, the commitment to meet the above mandate will remain unchanged.”

The new owners of Flow 93.5 FM stated the very same thing, yet in less than twelve months quickly filed to amend the license away from the original mandate; there are no guarantees. Will the plethora of qualified, well-financed black-owned broadcasters be left on the outside looking in? Will the potential new owners stand by their commitment, or will these be empty words.

Will the C.R.T.C. and the community hold the new ownership to account? If history is any indication, the answer to all these questions is NO, but you can have your say and watch the C.R.T.C. hearing live at 11 AM May 27th, 2021.  G98.7 FM is third on the court-hearing list.

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Urban Alliance on Race Relations celebrates and highlights Racial Justice Award recipients

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1 day ago

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December 19, 2024

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BY PAUL JUNOR

It has been almost 40 years since the Urban Alliance on Race Relations (UARR) has been at the forefront of: promoting tolerance, social justice, racial equity and fairness. Since it was formed in 1975, they have celebrated and recognized changemakers in the fight for racial justice in diverse sectors such as: health, labour, government, education, arts, media, environment, and justice.

On Saturday, December 7th, 2024, there was a great turnout at the 2024 Racial Justice Awards Night held at The Estate Banquet & Event Centre in Scarborough. In attendance were many community supporters, civic officials, long-time racial justice warriors, and individuals from diverse ethnic groups.

UARR is grateful for all the sponsors of the Racial Justice Awards Night Celebration. It notes in its email to its supporters on Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, the importance of its sponsors including:

  • United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) of Canada, UFCW, Local 175
  • The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) Local 353
  • Unite Here! Local 75
  • Toronto & York Region Labour Council
  • Canadian Labour Congress
  • The Coalitions of Black Trade Union (CBTUL)

“Your sponsorship plays a vital role in shining a light on individuals and organizations driving equity, justice, and change in our communities. This celebration is more than an event, it’s a movement. Thanks to your support, we’re: honoring changemakers, amplifying unheard voices, and funding initiatives that break down systemic barriers.”

The categories and names of the awards and recipients were:

Racial Justice in Arts: Hannia Cheng

She is an artist and cultural worker who co-founded Unit 270, a DIY gallery and multi-purpose grassroots community hub in Chinatown Centre.

Racial Justice in Labour: Vanessa Story

She is the founder of the Black Youth York Region and co-founder of the York Communities for Public Education coalition.

Racial Justice in Education: Shannon Simpson

She is Senior Director of Indigenous Initiatives at the University of Toronto.

Racial Justice in Environment: Dr. Ingrid Waldron

She is a Professor and HOPE Chair in Peace and Health in the Global and Peace and Social Justice Program in the Faculty of Humanities at McMaster University.

Urban Alliance of Race Relations Agent of Change Award: Kirk Mark

He is the Equity, Diversity and Inclusive Consultant at KIRK Mark & Associates.

Racial Justice in Media: Amanda Parris

She is an award-winning writer, tv host and producer, and former host of CBC Arts Exhibitionist.

Racial Justice in Health: Camille Orridge

She is former CEO of the Toronto Central Local Health Integration Network (TCLHIN).

Racial Justice in Government: Amira Elghawaby

She is a journalist and human rights advocate who was appointed in January 2023 as Canada’s Special Representative on Combating Islamophobia.

Racial Justice in Justice: South Asian Legal Clinic of Ontario (SALC0)

This legal clinic supports low-income South Asian people in Canada.

The funds raised from the Awards night will be going toward the work of the Diversity Youth Fellowship Program. This innovative and creative program is directly involved in enabling racialized youth to get paid experience working in municipal governments and at various public policy making organizations across Canada.

The performers at the event included: Katheen Zaragosa (a Filipino music performer), Rithika Jeristus & Maya Jeristus (Bharatanatyam dancers) and Yasmin Said (spoken word artist)

UARR is looking forward to its 50th anniversary celebrations in 2025 and shared five of its strategic priorities for the next 10 years including:

  • Employment and economic opportunity: The goal is to foster inclusive workspaces and economic opportunities.
  • Education: The goal is to promote racial equity in education and research.
  • Communication: The goal is to expand public awareness and reach to amplify our stories.
  • Community engagement and outreach: The goal is building community capacity and convening towards change.
  • Truth and reconciliation-relationship building and supporting calls to action. The goal is to strengthen our solidarity and action towards truth and reconciliation.

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What is it about those short videos that keep us captivated? Oh! Yes! Our short attention span

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1 day ago

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December 19, 2024

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BY KAHA GEDI

As our attention spans decrease, short form videos are becoming more popular. From TikTok, to YouTube Shorts, to Instagram Reels, these “snack sized” videos have positive qualities alongside the bad. Mainly we want to know what makes them so effective, and why are they becoming the go-to choice for both viewers and marketers? In this article, I will be discussing how these videos have received such popularity worldwide.

First, we need to understand what counts as and what is short-form content. According to blog.hubspot.com, “Short-form videos are videos that are less than 60 seconds long.” However, some marketers and content creators agree that short-form videos can be up to 3 minutes. “They are videos that deliver information in a ‘digestible’ format so that viewers can quickly watch and save content if they’re in a hurry or enjoy it.” Now, I’ll talk about the main reasons why these videos are so popular.

First, our attention spans have gone down exponentially. Dr Gloria Mark has written a book called “Attention Span,” and she says her research indicates people’s attention spans have been shrinking over the last 20 years. According to the same article Dr. Mark said that “Back in 2004, we found the average attention span on any screen to be two and a half minutes on average. Throughout the years, it became shorter. So, around 2012, we found it to be 75 seconds. Then in the last five, six years, we found it to average about 47 seconds.” So, it’s notable that our attention spans started out longer but then decreased over time.

Secondly, these videos have become cheaper and easier to make. Unlike long-form videos, which require extensive: planning, editing, and storytelling, short-form videos are simpler. To the point where they can even be shot on a smartphone. For example, DuoLingo, the app that helps learn new languages, went viral on TikTok a long time ago by posting funny, low-budget videos that resonate with millions. Like a video of a DuoLingo plus being: tossed down the stairs, sitting outside on a rainy day, or being soaked by the shower with the title “When you ignore my notifications.”

Lastly, they provide valuable information in a short amount of time, and they are easily accessible. According to a recent Adobe Survey, two in five Americans use TikTok as a search engine, and nearly one in 10 Gen Zeers are more likely to rely on TikTok than Google as a search engine. This isn’t always reliable for real news because anyone can claim to be an expert, and you wouldn’t know if they’re telling the truth. So, even though they give valuable information in a short time, they can also give misinformation or mislead you.

Short-form videos have changed how we watch and learn things. They fit our short attention spans, are easy to make, and share information quickly. Even though they’re fun and helpful, they can also spread false information or leave out important details. Even with these problems, short-form videos are here to stay, so we should use them in proportion, but also enjoy the benefits.

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Dr. Edward McInnis on the Importance of Preventive Care in Family Medicine

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1 day ago

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December 19, 2024

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Photo by National Cancer Institute on Unsplash

Preventive care is a cornerstone of modern healthcare, emphasizing the importance of addressing potential health concerns before they escalate into severe conditions. By focusing on proactive measures such as regular screenings, vaccinations, and lifestyle counseling, preventive care offers individuals and communities the opportunity to achieve long-term wellness.

Below, Edward McInnis highlights the transformative potential of prevention in reducing healthcare disparities, alleviating systemic challenges, and ensuring that every individual has the tools and access needed to lead a healthier life.

Understanding Preventive Care in Family Medicine

Preventive care in family medicine focuses on proactive measures to maintain health and prevent illness before it occurs. This approach emphasizes regular health evaluations, screenings, and interventions that identify potential issues early, reducing the likelihood of severe complications. Preventive care fosters long-term well-being by addressing risk factors and promoting healthier lifestyles while minimizing the burden of chronic diseases.

The philosophy behind preventive care aligns with the idea that staying healthy is more effective and less costly than treating illnesses after they arise. Early detection of conditions such as hypertension or high cholesterol allows patients and physicians to manage these issues effectively, preventing them from escalating into more severe health problems. Beyond individual benefits, this care model contributes to healthier communities by reducing the overall demand for healthcare systems.

Benefits of Preventive Care for Individuals and Communities

Preventive care profoundly impacts individuals and the broader community by addressing potential health concerns before they evolve into severe conditions. Early detection through routine screenings can significantly lower the risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. This improves individual health outcomes and reduces the emotional and financial toll of managing advanced diseases.

Communities prioritizing preventive care experience a ripple effect of healthier populations and reduced strain on healthcare resources. When more people engage in regular check-ups and adopt healthier habits, the prevalence of preventable conditions drops, creating a collective benefit. Individuals who invest in their health through preventive measures often enjoy longer, more active lives, positively influencing families, workplaces, and society.

The economic advantages of preventive care are undeniable, as early intervention typically costs far less than treating advanced illnesses. Vaccination programs, such as those targeting seasonal flu or childhood diseases, can drastically curb outbreaks, saving lives and reducing medical expenses. These benefits demonstrate how preventive care is a cornerstone of sustainable and effective healthcare systems.

Core Preventive Services in Family Medicine

Family medicine emphasizes various preventive services designed to address health needs across all stages of life. Regular health screenings, such as blood pressure and cholesterol checks, are critical in identifying silent health risks. These assessments provide actionable insights that allow individuals to make timely adjustments to their lifestyles or begin treatment when necessary.

Vaccinations are another cornerstone of preventive care, protecting individuals and communities from infectious diseases. From childhood immunizations to seasonal flu shots, these interventions safeguard personal health and prevent the spread of illnesses within larger populations. Counseling services, including guidance on nutrition, exercise, and stress management, empower patients to take an active role in their long-term well-being.

The Role of Family Physicians in Prevention

Family physicians play a pivotal role in fostering preventive care through their ability to build lasting, trust-based relationships with patients. These relationships enable them to understand not just medical histories but also lifestyle factors, family dynamics, and social determinants of health. This comprehensive knowledge allows physicians to craft personalized preventive strategies that resonate with each patient’s unique circumstances, ensuring a more practical approach to maintaining health.

Beyond individual care, family physicians act as educators, equipping patients with the knowledge to make informed health decisions. Whether discussing the significance of regular screenings or addressing misconceptions about vaccines, their guidance helps patients take ownership of their health.

The continuity of care provided by family physicians also ensures that preventive measures are consistently monitored and adjusted as needed, fostering long-term well-being. Their ability to provide holistic and deeply personalized care sets the foundation for healthier patients and communities.

Challenges in Accessing Preventive Care

Despite its proven benefits, accessing preventive care remains challenging for many individuals and communities. Financial barriers, such as lack of insurance coverage or high out-of-pocket costs, often deter people from seeking preventive services. Additionally, limited awareness about the importance of early detection and health promotion means that some individuals may only prioritize preventive care once a health issue becomes severe.

Geographical disparities also play a significant role in limiting access. Rural and underserved areas frequently face shortages of healthcare providers, making it difficult for residents to receive consistent preventive services. In such regions, innovative approaches like mobile health clinics and telemedicine have emerged as solutions to bridge the gap. Expanding these efforts could help overcome logistical obstacles and ensure that preventive care reaches those most in need.

Cultural factors and mistrust of the healthcare system can further complicate access to preventive services. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach that includes community engagement, culturally sensitive care, and efforts to build trust between healthcare providers and patients. Strengthening health literacy and facilitating dialogue between healthcare institutions and the communities they serve are also critical steps in overcoming these barriers.

Promoting and Advancing Preventive Care

Advancing preventive care depends on raising awareness and fostering a culture that values proactive health management. Educational campaigns, workplace wellness programs, and school-based health initiatives encourage people to adopt preventive practices. These efforts create an environment where individuals feel empowered to prioritize their well-being, leading to healthier lifestyles and earlier intervention.

The integration of technology is revolutionizing how preventive care is delivered. Wearable devices that track physical activity, heart rate, and sleep patterns provide individuals with real-time data about their health, prompting timely action when irregularities arise. Similarly, data analytics and predictive tools enable healthcare providers to identify at-risk populations and deliver targeted interventions, improving outcomes on a broader scale.

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