Amy Goodman discusses the role of independent media at KZUM event

By Will Roper
Photos by Gabriella Parsons
April 24, 2018

The historic and charming Rococo Theatre held one of the most prominent independent journalists in the world for a talk on history, politics and journalism on Friday

Amy Goodman, host and executive producer of the daily independent news program “Democracy Now!,” made the trip to Lincoln as part of KZUM’s ongoing celebration of the station’s 40 years on the air.

In anticipation for Goodman’s talk and book signing, many said they were excited to listen to the “Democracy Now!” host in person, and were happy KZUM had partnered with Goodman.

“Amy Goodman and KZUM are both the real deal,” said Bill Swearingen, longtime listener of “Democracy Now!.”

When asked why he believes the news program is so important, Lincolnite Scott Svoboda could only provide one word.

“Democracy,” he said.

There were a few other groups that worked with KZUM in making Goodman’s visit a memorable one. The Marz HouseBand performed on stage as the audience mingled and found their seats, and played the theme song to Goodman’s show as she arrived to the theater. Catering company Yes Chef served a wide variety of food and pastries to VIP guests, receiving nothing but compliments throughout the evening.

The Rococo Theatre themselves were instrumental in organizing the event, serving drinks, working stage lighting and sound, etc., providing a first-class experience for all who attended.

Indigo Bridge Books also sold copies of Goodman’s newest book Democracy Now!: Twenty Years Covering the Movements Changing America, and said they were fans of Goodman and were happy to be a part of her event.

Goodman took the stage around 8:20 p.m. and delivered a thought-provoking and powerful talk on many different topics. She focused early on her experience getting into broadcasting and journalism, such as her earlier days as news director for Pacifica Radio before co-founding “Democracy Now!”

However, much of her discussion was on her coverage of notable stories like Occupy Wall Street, the controversial execution of Troy Davis and the Dakota Access Pipeline standoff between builders Energy Transfer Partners and the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and its allies. Through all of these protests, Goodman said that independent journalism was significant in reporting the truth as a counter to  what she called corporate media failing to report on many important stories throughout these protests.

Occasionally, Goodman said she was arrested or threatened with arrest for reporting on protests the local government didn’t want published. Still, independent journalism that doesn’t depend on corporate funding, she said, will always be needed in today’s fast-paced era of news – especially when ridiculed or threatened.

Rachel Garver attended the talk, and said hearing stories from Goodman herself showed just how real these issues are.

“I learned so much more from listening to [Goodman],” Garver said. “She emphasized issues that need to be emphasized. We need independent journalists.”

After her moving speech, Goodman returned to sign copies of her book until every patron had left – even posing for a picture with the staff and interns of KZUM. Overall, the event and people made for a perfect night at the Rococo Theatre for Goodman’s talk. Those who saw her in Lincoln were given a memorable experience as Goodman continues her illustrious career as a journalist, reporter, Democracy Now! host, speaker and author.

Will Roper is an editorial intern with KZUM.