House Joint Resolution 7050, sponsored by Camper, honors WDIA Radio in Memphis on its seventy-fifth anniversary. Established in 1947, WDIA was the first Black-formatted radio station in the United States, initially struggling with its original country and pop music format before successfully catering to the African American community. The station has since become a significant cultural and broadcasting influence, not only in Memphis but across the nation, inspiring other stations to follow its model. Notable figures in broadcasting, such as Nat D. Williams and Bev Johnson, have contributed to its legacy, and the station has played a vital role in the revitalization of local landmarks and the development of the National Civil Rights Museum.
The resolution acknowledges WDIA's commitment to community service and entertainment, highlighting its impact on the careers of artists like B.B. King and its dedication to providing quality broadcasting, news, and emergency information to its listeners. As the station celebrates this milestone, the resolution expresses gratitude to the workers and team behind WDIA for their contributions over the years and extends best wishes for continued success in the future.