Welcome to Citizens.am, where we understand the critical role of media in shaping society and democracy. Our mission is rooted in addressing a fundamental issue in today’s media landscape: the overwhelming dominance of mainstream news media by a small group of powerful corporations. This control, stretching across newspapers, radio, television, and publishing, poses a significant threat to the democratic process, as it often leads to a homogenization of perspectives and a neglect of critical or radical viewpoints. Citizens.am stands as a beacon for diverse voices and ideas, challenging the dominant, often neoliberal and conservative narratives.

Our focus is not just on what is reported, but how it is reported. Mainstream media, influenced by corporate ownership and profit motives, tends to favor narratives that support existing power structures, thus impeding genuine social change. This leads to a style of reporting that is biased, selective, and often fails to provide a fair and balanced representation of events and issues. At Citizens.am, we align with Noam Chomsky’s concept of ‘manufacturing consent,’ recognizing the news media’s role in shaping public perception to align with elite interests through subtle means, such as topic selection, framing of issues, and limiting debate scope.

Citizens.am was born in response to this biased narrative landscape, dedicated to providing a platform for progressive and leftist perspectives in talk radio. We emerge as a direct counter to the conservative dominance in talk radio, a trend that has significantly influenced American political and social landscapes. The evolution of conservative talk radio, especially post-1980s, has been characterized by openly partisan programming and a shift away from balanced viewpoints. This style of broadcasting has resonated with a large segment of the population, yet it has also contributed to political polarization and a neglect of nuanced discourse.

Our platform aims to provide an alternative and more progressive viewpoint and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities which are often underrepresented in mainstream media. By challenging the conservative echo chamber, Citizens.am presents diverse narratives and fosters a more inclusive public conversation. We give a platform to communities of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and other minority groups, highlighting their experiences and issues.

Progressive talk radio at Citizens.am is more than just an alternative; it’s a necessary counterbalance to existing political polarization. We offer a space for leftist ideologies and perspectives, encouraging comprehensive and balanced political discussions. Our approach is rooted in factual reporting, critical analysis, and intellectual discourse on societal issues, with the aim of cultivating a more informed, critical, and engaged citizenry.

Recognizing the challenges in market dynamics and audience engagement, we see an opportunity to connect with a younger, more diverse audience increasingly interested in progressive and social justice issues. Citizens.am is not just a talk radio station; it’s a movement towards a more equitable and diverse media ecosystem. We are committed to playing a pivotal role in shaping a more inclusive and informed public discourse, making us an essential platform for those seeking a progressive perspective in today’s media-saturated world.