We Are WRAS: A Special Broadcast, June 26 at 1 p.m.
On Thursday, June 26th, WRCT will join college radio stations across the country to unite and say “We Are WRAS,” as WRAS, the college radio station of Georgia State University, offers an unprecedented radio simulcast to highlight their fight to remain a student-run radio station. For one hour, starting at 1 p.m. EDT, from coast to coast, listeners will hear the Atlanta-based station on their own college radio station as participating stations show their support for WRAS.
On May 6, 2014, the WRAS staff was informed of a deal made unilaterally between Georgia State University and Georgia Public Broadcasting that will replace WRAS programming with GPB news programming from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.
Anastasia Zimitravich, outgoing General Manager of WRAS, issued this statement:
“To our fellow college stations across North America, we at WRAS humbly ask for your support in this battle to retain our student voice. By airing this 1-hour public affairs program, which focuses on the history and legacy of WRAS Album 88.5FM, you can show support for our cause and help spread the word of college radio’s influence. In our changing media landscape, there are frequent arguments against radio’s relevance which we hope to disprove. WRAS-Atlanta asks you, the future broadcasters of America, to help us educate the public on how college radio affects music, media, and opportunities for students.”
Peter Kreten, President of College Radio Day, states, “In this hour program, WRAS will show just how much of an impact they have made in their 43-year history and why it’s important that they should continue to be student-run.” The program will also include audio messages of support from many of the participating radio stations. “Many college radio stations throughout the country want WRAS to know that they are not alone during this time,” added Kreten.
Please tune to WRCT Pittsburgh this Thursday at 1 p.m. to show your solidarity for student-run college radio broadcasting. WRCT is proud to stand by WRAS in this uncertain time for the members of that station. The issue currently facing WRAS is quickly becoming an issue that college stations around the country are liable to face.
Join WRCT in saying to everyone listening, “We Are WRAS”.