40 Years of Radio Skid Row

Community radio has always been a vital resource for marginalized communities around the world, giving voices to those actively silenced by mainstream media, particularly the working class, indigenous communities, and ethnic groups. Platforming radical ideas intentionally excluded from commercialised media, it plays a vital role in cultivating communities through the airwaves.

Radio Skid Row was born in response to the need for a grassroots space in Sydney; one that was accessible to Indigenous communities through the sheer determination of these staunch communities, a radio station built solely for their struggles was born.

Ultimately, the struggles of marginalised communities transcend race, and Radio Skid Row came to serve communities outside the Indigenous communities of Australia. A valuable function of the radio station was its ability to connect the struggles of these communities.

For those displaced by Apartheid South Africa, Radio Skid Row became a safe haven for political activists where they could share news to the broader African community. This continued long after Nelson Mandela’s release from prison and the abolition of apartheid. Now, Afrika Connexions is one of the longest running shows on Radio Skid Row and continues to be aired weekly on Sunday from 12-3pm, giving voice to the African communities in Australia as they did

Radio Skid Row continues to platform marginalized communities across the inner west. It is still an activist, grassroots community radio station showcasing

Our ethnic customs, practices and physical features are deemed as heteronormative in the lens of eurocentric ideals. Our ethnocultural backgrounds must be disregarded in order to complement your ideals. Our identity is not queer enough for you. We are not queer enough for you.

I understand your struggles as a queer person, but you do not understand mine as a queer person of colour. Fallen on us is the burden of erasing aspects of queer discrimination in our communities, whilst grappling with racism across all spaces. Whilst we fight for survival, you fight for marriage equality. Whilst we are both mistreated by the same facet of oppression, in another angle you play an active role in our subjugation.

At the end of the day, you are white.

Art by Bipasha Chakraborty

40 different shows, broadcasting in 16 different languages, with over 80 broadcasters, 3 part-time staff, and 8 board members to run the station. Community training in broadcasting has been at the forefront of Radio Skid Row’s vision, equipping volunteers with valuable skills. This training continues to be a valuable asset to the broader Sydney community.

This year, Radio Skid Row will be celebrating their 40th anniversary on air, and a few events are planned to commemorate this momentous year. A spokesperson from Radio Skid Row has expressed that “we need the support of the community more than ever so we can continue to broadcast for another 40 years!”

2023 will also be a defining year for Radio Skid Row as they embark on the process of going digital.This means that the broadcasts will improve in quality and accessibility, increasing the scope of audiences across Sydney and beyond. The plans for the year are still in progress, however those who would like to get involved in the celebrations are welcome. You can listen to Radio Skid Row on 88.9FM and on their website at https://radioskidrow.org/. Radio Skid Row needs people from the community to continue contributing if it’s to last as a platform for marginalised voices. Check out their volunteering page for more: https://radioskidrow. org/volunteer-skidrow/

Art by Ethan Floyd