Every year, the media reform community convenes to celebrate one of the founders of the movement, to reflect on the ethical questions of our day, and to honor outstanding champions of media reform. This annual event, called the Parker Lecture, is in honor of Dr. Everett C. Parker, who is often called the founder of the media reform movement, and who died last month at the age of 102. Dr. Parker made incredible contributions from his post as the Executive Director of the United Church of Christ’s Office of Communication, Inc.. This organization is part of the progressive movement’s efforts to hold media accountable and to consider how best to ensure all people, no matter their income or background, benefit from new technology.

I am delighted to be part of this year’s events as one of the honorees. My other amazing partners in this adventure are:

• Joseph Torres, senior external affairs director of Free Press and co-author of News for All the People: The Epic Story of Race and the American Media, will receive the Parker Award which recognizes an individual whose work embodies the principles and values of the public interest in telecommunications.
• Wally Bowen, co-founder and executive director of the Mountain Area Information Network (MAIN), will receive the Donald H. McGannon Award in recognition of his dedication to bringing modern telecommunications to low-income people in rural areas.

The 33rd Annual Parker Lecture will be held Tuesday, October 20, 2015 at 8 a.m. at the First Congregational United Church of Christ, 945 G St NW, Washington, DC 20001. I will be giving a talk as part of this celebration and joined by Clayton Old Elk of the Crow Tribe who will offer a praise song.

Want to join us? Tickets are available here.