by Damon Scott
Daily Lobo
Journalist Amy Goodman spoke about her radio show and new book in the SUB Thursday night.
Goodman's visit was the beginning of events for KUNM's 40th anniversary.
"KUNM is a jewel in public media - a national treasure," Goodman said.
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KUNM has broadcast Goodman's radio show "Democracy Now" since its inception in 1996. Goodman is often involved in fundraising for the radio station.
"'Democracy Now' is a hugely popular show and has a very strong, very loyal audience," KUNM program director Marcos Martinez said. "Amy is very supportive of community media."
The show is broadcast on more than 500 media outlets around the world.
Martinez said college students listen to her show because they are interested in issues the corporate media does not cover.
Matthew Kappus, a student at Central New Mexico Community College, said Goodman is important for more than her political stance.
"For me, it's not necessarily about her politics, but her brand of journalism," he said.
Commercial media often falls short in reporting events, he said.
UNM student Maria Santelli agreed.
"Amy Goodman covers the stories of people's struggles," Santelli said. "She gives a voice to people's struggles for justice. She is able to cover stories from the perspective of the people."
Portions of the ticket sales were donated to KUNM.
The event was co-sponsored by Bookworks.
KUNM began broadcasting from the basement of the SUB in 1966. It will celebrate 40 years of broadcasting on Oct. 19.
