Rodríguez, J. (2005). Indigenous radio stations in Mexico: a catalyst for social cohesion and cultural strength. Radio Journal: International Studies in Broadcast & Audio Media, 3(3), 155-169. Retrieved May 7, 2008, doi:10.1386/rajo.3.3.155_1
Indigenous Radio in Mexico
Mexico has 60 different ethnic groups with their own distinct language. With 12 million indigenous people, about one-tenth of the total population, it is the eighth most indigenously populated country in the world. During the formation of the Mexican nation, a model of assimilation was implemented. The social identification was defined by the dominant classes. Many ethnicities weren’t allowed to form their own identity. They were forced to adapt to the dominant language and culture in an attempt for homogenization. The culture of the indigenous people was confined to oral tradition. Since the 1980s, the Mexican government has developed a radio network to serve the indigenous people who have a history of marginalization. The Zapatista movement in 1994 led to the reformation of the constitution in 2001 which officially recognized the plural-cultural composition of Mexico.
The government radio network is designed to address indigenous affairs and serve the people of these regions. The government organization is part of the National Commission for the Development of Indigenous Peoples, formed in 2003. The Commission is the reformed version of the National Indigenous Institute formed in 1951.
The network consists of 20 local AM stations and 4 FM stations, broadcast in over 30 different languages. The stations are located in regions with indigenous majorities and employ mostly indigenous people.
The stations are a hybrid model, combining government, public, and community radio attributes. Major decisions are made by bureaucrats in the federal government making it seem like government radio. However like public radio, the content lacks the dissemination of official propaganda. The station also operates like community radio with local interests being the main focus. Up to 60% of the content consists of personal messages. For example, a message might be sent over the radio to a person’s mother informing her that her son arrived safe at a certain destination.
The ethnic radio in Mexico serves as an intercommunication outlet and promotes social cohesion. The radio also promotes grassroots organizations where community members organize in a common interest of a local issue. Finally, the radio provides the indigenous population with self-representation. It promotes their own language, history and music, which provides them with an image of themselves. (Seth Koury)
Comments (0)
You don't have permission to comment on this page.