Radical Media Groups

In Downing's book, he talks about radical media groups who focus on getting to the root of legitimate problems in their societies. These groups are progressive in their views, yet are small and underfunded. One must have a passion for the cause to stay totally committed to these groups.

The Chicago Independent Media Center is a group of independent journalists who cover the news in an unbiased manner (unlike typical media outlets) for the Chicago area. By reporting on protests, the group is able to spread the message of smaller groups throughout the area without the biased news coverage associating peaceful protests with out of control riots in the streets. Additionally, the center offers alternative news reporting, most recently an article featuring the economic pitfalls the city will face if chosen as the site of the next Olympics.

Additionally, with the invention of the Internet, these radical media groups are able to easily communicate with other members of the mission. As a relatively free service, the Internet allows groups to create web pages that explain their mission, which can reach numerous people at once, and can also seek funds by the way of donation in an easy-to-use format. Downing says that, though grassroots organizations are typically fighting against mainstream media, they can utilize mass media outlets (such as the Internet) to further their cause (p. 33).


The Chicago Independent Media Center