Amy Goodman talk show host

Amy Goodman, host of the independent radio show Democracy Now!, will speak on campus Sunday about her book and her critical views of politicians and mainstream media coverage of world news.

Goodman, who has been criticized by both Democrats and Republicans for her criticism of mainstream media, said the media has hit an all-time low.

"When it comes to the invasion and occupation [in Iraq] the media is a conveyor belt for the lies of the administration," Goodman said. "It is the journalist's role to hold those in power accountable and give a voice to the voiceless."

Goodman's grass-roots news show Democracy Now! is broadcast daily on 225 radio stations across the country.

The Tucson station that airs the show, KXCI 91.3, is sponsoring Goodman's appearance at Centennial Hall along with Access Tucson, the public access television station.

Goodman's first book, "The Exception to the Rulers: Exposing Oily Politicians, War Profiteers and the Media That Love Them," was co-authored by her brother and was published in spring 2004.

Goodman is on the second half of a 100-city tour to celebrate her book and the independent media, she said.

Last year, Goodman's Tucson show sold out, with about 2,500 people attending at Centennial Hall.

"It was great. The response was tremendous," Goodman said.

Larry Bruce, general manager of KXCI said the station and Access Tucson are bringing Goodman to Tucson because she is a strong non-corporate voice and a supporter of independent media. KXCI was one of the first stations to air Democracy Now!, Bruce said.

"People love her for her honesty and alternative take,"

Bruce said." Community radio is the only alternative radio media in Tucson that is not dominated by corporate voice."

Although Goodman votes, she said she doesn't give herself a political label.

Goodman said she believes her book sends a message to publishers that they should show more than just right wing voices.

Joel Aalberts, UApresents marketing director, expects the event to be a big hit this year, even if Goodman's ideas do not appeal to everyone.

"A lot of events that take place won't represent the whole population all of the time," Aalberts said.

Goodman worked for her college newspaper before going into radio.

She said she liked the non-commercial, independent radio stations and started in community radio in 1985.

Seats are still available. Aalberts said they have only sold about 20 percent of the tickets but said he thinks there will be a lot of walkup sales.

Tickets can be purchased at Centennial Hall, Access Tucson and KXCI. General admission tickets are $17 and $15 for KXCI members and Access Tucson contributing members.

Students with a student ID will get a $5 discount.

KXCI and Access Tucson will host a meet and greet at 5:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets for the meet and greet are $75.