The Multicultural Radio Network (MCRN) coalition, led by Asian Media Access, represents a group of community-based agencies serving communities of color. Since 2007, it represents a unique collaboration between the private and public sectors, with 4 major HD radio stations - Pan African, Pan Asian, Native American and Russian. A first such alliance in multicultural/multi-lingual broadcasting in Minnesota, this media collective draws on the strengths of each of its partners, shares strategies to reach its audiences, and builds bridges among these same communities who are isolated from each other due to language and culture.
MCRN seeks funding to support a new initiative - All in the Mix (A.I.M.), targeting indigenous/immigrant/refugee communities in combating racism, with a special focus on accessing healthcare facilities. This project intends to produce multi-lingual community radio productions focusing on racial healing and public health information; “chicken soup”-like radio vignettes; community forums/discussion groups addressing racism and health disparities; at-risk youth leadership development opportunities; multi-lingual websites hosting both English and multi-lingual stories for racial healing; and outreach to the mainstream community with a final reflection of documentary “A.I.M.: Are We There Yet?” In the end, the project’s service learning opportunities will forge bonds between youth and the community, while raising youth feelings of self-worth and valuing harmony by doing something valued by others.