The need for more Black voices is at an all-time high right now, and the world is especially looking toward media companies to lead the charge for more inclusion.

As a means to provide more Black-focused outlets, iHeartRadio is launching its Black Information Network — the first and only 24/7 national and local all news audio service dedicated to providing an objective, accurate, and trusted source of continual news coverage with a Black voice and perspective, a press release reports.

“We are pleased and proud to enable the support the launch of BIN: Black Information Network by contributing resources that will have the greatest impact — our reach, our multiple platforms, our technology infrastructure and our broad, in-depth relationships with consumers,” said Bob Pittman, iHeartMedia chairman/CEO.

In an announcement, Variety reported the company stated that BIN is “focused on service to the Black community and providing an information window for those outside the community to help foster communication, accountability and a deeper understanding.”

According to the Wall Street Journal, the idea for this news platform was formed a year ago, but the need for it took on a sense of urgency in the wake of George Floyd’s murder and other incidents that sparked civil unrest.

It’s a known fact that mainstream news outlets don’t always speak to the Black community or report on news that directly affects us. The idea behind BIN is to absolve this disservice and highlight topics that the Black community is interested in that are told from the Black perspective.

According to iHeartMedia president Tony Coles, BIN will work to “fill the void” between mainstream news and the Black community to maintain a more informative platform specifically dedicated to Black issues.

BIN will be nationally-distributed through the iHeartRadio app and accessible via mobile, smart speakers, smart TVs, and other connected platforms, and on dedicated all-news local AM/FM broadcast radio stations, according to a press release.

It’s time to demand diversity and inclusion amongst all major institutions and BIN is likely to spark a chain reaction for more outlets to be created as a means to empower Black voices.

BIN is currently hiring for various positions at iheartmediacareers.com.

BIN

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