Black Radio and Civil Rights: Birmingham, 1956–1963

Abstract

The Birmingham civil rights movement, under the leadership of Fred Shuttlesworth, challenged a social system based on segregation and White supremacy. This study explores the degree to which Birmingham radio stations covered the struggle for freedom and equality. Mainstream stations did little in the way of coverage. Announcers at Black-oriented stations, under pressure from White owners to avoid controversy, reluctantly followed the status quo. However, a brilliant programming strategy at the leading Black station in the market encouraged civic participation, facilitated the flow of information about civil rights activities, and ultimately led the way to positive social change.