El Salvador Alternative Media Info

ARPAS is a network of 24 community radio stations and 6 production centers that emerged from the Salvadoran civil war that ended in 1992. It is currently engaged in providing an outlet for communities neglected by the central government.

El Salvador is the fourth poorest country on the continent, the smallest and the most densely populated. Over 60% of the population live in extreme poverty. A sign of hope in recent years has been the growth of this radio network, from 11 to 24 stations (and the 6 production centers). This effort, impossible without the efforts of volunteers, shows the level of trust the people of El Salvador place in community radio. The transistors are community-owned, broadcasting with an average of 20 watts. These stations have been instrumental in maintaining a voice for the people of El Salvador amongst privatization and increased corporate power.

Please come to hear a radio director from Acajutla, E.S. share the meaning of broadcasting to over 184 poor communities in a place filled with prostitution, poverty, pollution, organized crimeÑbut also hope. 15 women volunteer to produce programming on health, labor rights, literacy, news, sports, and music. Donations of funds, equipment, and expertise are welcome. We are looking for news exchanges (we are satellite and internet equipped), and technical and financial support. T-shirts, stickers and Salvadoran coffee for sale; wine, beer and appetizers.

2870A 22nd Street at Pe–a del Sur in San Francisco; 3-5 pm on Sunday, October 15th.