The long-running television program “Crossroads” was in the spotlight as the Houston Museum of African American Culture (HMAAC) hosted “The Women of Crossroads,” a salute to the show’s producers and hosts over its 46-year run on KTRK ABC13.
The gathering, however, turned into more than a celebration of the past, but a discussion on the future of community affairs programming.
On hand for the viewing of “Crossroads” last episode and subsequent panel discussion were the show’s original producer, Linda K. Brown, and last host, Melanie Lawson. The two shared insights and personal stories about their respective “Crossroads” experiences.
“When I worked at KTRK-TV during the 1970s I was the original producer of both programs,” said Brown, referring to “The Show” and “Black Outlook,” shows that were later combined and renamed “Crossroads” by then host Claudette Sims.
Brown said pressure from media activist Pluria Marshall Sr. was instrumental in getting local stations to meet required FCC public affairs programming and begin creating content geared towards the Black community.
Lawson enjoyed giving voice to such issues.
“While no programming can cover all bases, we were able to talk about important issues, highlight interesting people and events, and give a wide variety of people in our community the chance to talk directly to the audience,” Lawson said.
“There are so many important and fascinating stories in our community that never make it on a newscast, for a variety of reasons. Community affairs programs can provide that outlet.”
Phyllis Bailey was also at the HMAAC event and expressed feelings shared by many in attendance regarding the show’s end.
“For a station like KTRK to end a show after a 50-year run and not announce it to the public is a disservice,” said Bailey. “KTRK moved ‘Crossroads’ around in so many timeslots I doubt the Black community even realizes it doesn’t air any longer. All communities of color really need to pay attention to these types of moves.”
Brown added that the cancellation of “Crossroads” and other public affairs programming offers important lessons.
“We must not take our advancements in any aspect for granted. There have been many sacrifices made from the Civil Rights Movement to the Jim Crow era and beyond, and we cannot afford to allow the ‘powers that be’ to stifle our progress and achievements. We have to continue to tell ‘our story’ and seek other avenues to do so,” Brown said.
Looking forward, Lawson shared advice for those who want to see such programming continue, including telling African-American stories, not giving up on a story until it is told and operating with a plan of action to ensure newsrooms find it compelling.
“Try sending [your story idea] to the newsroom or better yet, to a reporter or anchor you like to watch. Use social media to reach them or to spread the word, so the media seeks you out,” she added.
Brown contends that the FCC regulations that helped give birth to community-oriented programming, “Crossroads” included, have become lax in their requirements, thus demanding more action from the public.
“The only way we can successfully salvage the gains within the broadcasting industry is to bring attention on a broader level about what the current trend has unfortunately become, by way of social media campaigns and other methods of public engagement which they only respond to because of FCC licensing and ascertainment requirements,” said Brown.
Lawson agrees that social media is key for getting local news stations to cover issues relevant to Black people.
“You no longer have to go through a receptionist or a security guard to talk to your favorite reporter, anchor or columnist. Tweet them or go to their Facebook page. It’s the next best thing to a one-on-one conversation.”
