The factual information and potential impact of the proposed $45 billion merger between Comcast and Time Warner has been minimally available, at best. Critics are quick to claim industry monopoly, and toss the potential market withdrawals as reason to oppose this deal. However, those who are privy to both the particulars and potential of this deal feel otherwise. It’s a good deal for far more than those immediately involved.
The influential and lucrative industry that is broadcast communications has been elusive for blacks, as well as those in the Mexican, Hispanic, Asian and women markets. Statistics reflect that less than 4% of owners of broadcast entities are minorities or women. That statistic, while realistic, is both abysmal and embarrassing. Long overlooked or left out of the equation, this deal stands to not just open the door, but to create new ones through which these otherwise neglected markets can pass.
While Comcast has an impressive and noted recorded of community consciousness and involvement, Time Warner does not. In their partnership with Bright House Cable, Time Warner has consistently failed to show an interest or intent to improve the landscape of the community through minority and women owned or oriented broadcast entities in the US.
 
Yet, Comcast created a Joint Diversity Advisory Council, which consists of 4-nine member Diversity Councils; each of which is comprised of representatives from each of aforementioned groups. These councils are designed to oversee and execute strategies that encourage and make available viable opportunities for participation in the broadcast landscape of Comcast. As a result, Comcast has launched more minority and women owned networks than any other cable network in the United States.
 
Having market presence has never sufficed for Comcast, as their outreach has included Internet is Essential and cable in the classrooms to ensure the underserved is provided the same access to information and resources as others. That is how a difference is made.
 
This deal is more than a growth opportunity for Comcast. It is a long denied leveling of the broadcast industry playing field upon which we all deserve to play. And, after an 8 month takeover battle with Charter Communications and Liberty Media, the stockholders of Time Warner have approved the proposed merger. I stand in agreement with those stockholders in support of this landmark transaction.
 
Participating in open markets in the United States while competitive should be an opportunity afforded to everyone, and far too many have been left out of the equation. This is not only a major first step towards righting a wrong, but is more importantly a key transaction that stands to transform the face, landscape and ownership opportunities of broadcast communications for generations to come, thus defining a new American Dream for everyone.