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s a former journalist, I’ve seen, firsthand, how powerful the media is. Controlling the narrative brings about the ability to control perception which, subsequently, can create a false sense of reality. It’s no secret that certain media outlets push a particular type of messaging on the public while being silent on topics involving underrepresented communities. Look historically at traditional news outlets nationally and locally and find a lack of diversity shapes stories, reports stories and determines what’s even worthy of becoming stories. In this coverage vacuum, music became a primary outlet for storytelling. In the mid- to late 1980s, rap music transformed from a party-centric focus fueled by artists such as Grandmaster Flash and Afrika Bambaataa to a more gritty, frustrated medium led by artists like Public Enemy and N.W.A. Both groups, in their own way, were frustrated with what was happening in their environments and decided to be a voice to those who shared similar frustrations. Social media now joins music as go-to outlets for the expression of ideas that mainstream media notoriously suppresses. Social media has allowed those without a press pass to establish themselves as columnists and opinion writers. Most importantly, it has become a megaphone for communities often left voiceless on key issues.
Social media has become the breeding ground for a “why not us” spirit. This spirit can be seen even in Wichita. Urban Magnate is a by-product of that; individuals wanting to tell stories they feel are important; stories that are too important to wait for other outlets to find the time or use to simply fill dead space. In this issue, you’ll read about individuals who are finding alternative outlets to hare stories of difference. You’ll read about Bonita Gooch’s “ineffable” dream taking her newspaper statewide, and Ti’Juana Hardwell’s platform for the local underground artist and celebrity. You’ll read Danilo Balladares’ responses to the media void on a video that scored more than 25,000 views related to the City of Wichita’s search for a police chief. You’ll hear more from me and Danielle Johnson on how we’re working to continue cultivating the young, diverse and talented through Wichita Urban Professionals. You’ll also learn about the newest social media campaign that has everyone talking about loving Wichita. There is a new chapter being written about Wichita. What role will you play in that? Will you be a co-writer, a character or a casual reader about what happens? The choice is yours; choose wisely. -- J. Long
Jonathan Long, President Wichita Urban Professionals