NEWS
Federal Communications Commission
445 12th Street, S.W.
Washington, D. C.  20554
This is an unofficial announcement of Commission action.  Release of the full text of a Commission order constitutes official action.
See MCI v. FCC. 515 F 2d 385 (D.C. Circ 1974).
News Media Information 202 / 418-0500
Internet: http://www.fcc.gov
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE NEWS MEDIA CONTACT
September 17, 2015 Chanelle Hardy, (202) 418-2100
Chanelle.Hardy@fcc.gov
FCC COMMISSIONER MIGNON L. CLYBURN STATEMENT 
ON THE PASSING OF REV. DR. EVERETT PARKER
I just got word that a civil rights giant, Rev. Dr. Everett Parker, passed away this 
morning.  Considered by many a founder of the “Media Justice Movement,” he established the 
United Church of Christ Office of Communication, “a media reform and accountability ministry 
with a civil rights agenda.” He was committed to improving the coverage and employment of 
women and people of color in broadcasting and other media before it was “cool. 
In 1964, along with the NAACP and at the urging of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Dr. 
Parker petitioned the FCC to deny the license renewal of WLBT, a local broadcast station in 
Jackson, Mississippi with ties to the White Citizens Council. The station openly used its platform 
to oppose the integration of the local universities. While the FCC denied their petition, the 
Supreme Court – in 1969 – ruled that the broadcast industry was required to serve the public 
interest and the station was ultimately stripped of its license.   This case was foundational in 
determining that there is a recognized connection between the use of publicly-owned airwaves 
by private companies and a duty to serve the public.
I met this incredible man around the time of his 97th birthday. He was engaged, 
supportive and sage (forecasting the day when there would be a female chair of the FCC). I never 
forgot those words and sent him a note thanking him for voicing that sentiment during my term 
as Acting Chair.
As an FCC Commissioner completing her sixth year of federal service, I will never turn 
my back on the important legacy and work of Everett Parker. Too many take for granted the 
fruits of his labor. I never will. 
Well done. Rest in Peace.
--FCC--