Omroep Zwart says it has 50,000 paying members, which means that an important condition for joining the public broadcasting system has been met. Amsterdam rapper Akwasi and film director Gianni Grot are the initiators of the broadcaster, which strives for “a correct reflection of society at the public broadcaster, both in front of and behind the scenes.”
On the Omroep Zwart site, the member counter shows 50,005 members a little after 10:00, all of whom have paid 10 euros. Zwart must now submit a policy plan to the Media Authority. That plan must show that the aspiring broadcaster will add something to the existing programming.
The word ‘black’ in the name refers to “all colors together”, according to the broadcaster. “Black often has a negative connotation: bilious, black viewer. While it can be something cheerful, something beautiful.” The broadcaster also wants to bring people with different education and experiences together and “be open to something that is different, and someone who is different.”
Kickboxer Remy Bonjasky, actor Achmed Akkabi and presenter Tanja Jess, among others, have expressed their support on social media. The milestone of 50,000 paying members is only the beginning, according to the aspiring broadcaster. “It cannot be otherwise than that we will continue to grow rapidly in the coming weeks,” say the initiators.
Other broadcasters
Among others Ongehoord Nederland and Omroep Groen are also trying to secure a place in the system. Existing broadcasters such as Human and Max are also advertising these months to get new members before January 1.
