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We need a digital transition that doesn't leave anyone out

by Hannah Jane Sassaman | 04.18.2009

I've lived in Philadelphia for over twelve years -- without cable. For much of that I didn't have internet access at home, either. Like thousands of my neighbors, if I wanted local news and weather, I turned to my broadcast TV. This past December and January, when students, block captains, neighbors, and friends worked to stop the city from shutting down our local libraries, it was an thrill to see all of us on TV -- and to know that others across the city were joining the fight after seeing themselves reflected on their local airwaves.

Center for Media Justice

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Now the FCC is shepherding the transition from analog-bunny-ears TV to digital broadcasting.  That's great -- but that also means that thousands of Philadelphians need to shell out 60 bucks or more to keep the news coming.  The government built a program where everyone could apply for two $40 coupons to help with the cost -- but most boxes are well over $40, and retailers nationwide aren't stocking affordable boxes for our communities.

Philadelphia is joining cities from Minneapolis to San Antonio in pushing our retailers to stock affordable boxes -- and with all TV stations going digital in June, now is the time to make sure that every Philadelphian gets a box they can afford.  Retailers should stock these boxes -- and advertise to their customers that they support a digital transition that doesn't leave anyone out.

 

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