Broadcast Segregation: WJTV'S Early Years

Abstract

When WJTV signed on the air in 1953, it did so amid much fanfare. However, as the civil rights movement gained momentum in the 1960s, the Jackson, Mississippi, television station became embroiled in controversy amid allegations of racial bias. This study examines the United Church of Christ decision to file a petition with the FCC urging denial of WJTV's license in 1964. It also discusses the commission's response to that petition. The FCC ruling in favor of the station was due to the perception that the station was beginning to improve its programming. The United Church of Christ dropped the case against WJTV in part because of financial considerations.