On Thursday, the Federal Communications Commission's new media ownership rules go into effect. According to industry representatives and some federal regulators, this means greater consumer choice and a more competitive media environment.

Don't count on it. If recent history is any guide, media deregulation, such as the Telecommunications Act of 1996, has done more harm than good to radio.

What was once a vibrant and creative medium that served the needs of local communities now answers only to the logic of the marketplace. As if the state of local news and public affairs isn't woeful enough, the FCC's new ownership rules, drafted with scarcely any public comment and scheduled to take effect despite widespread opposition, would do the same for local television and newspapers.

Across the country, individuals, community activists and a diverse coalition of interest groups are organizing protests against the FCC's rules. On Thursday, voice your concerns, write your elected representatives and educate yourself on the consequences of media consolidation.

Kevin Howley

Assistant professor

Communication Arts & Sciences

DePauw University

Greencastle