From “Cafeteria Stereo System” to the Airwaves: The Evolution of Cape Breton University’s Caper Radio

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper illustrates that campus radio continues to be relevant within the Canadian media ecosystem. Because of the unique commitments of campus-community radio, this sector constitutes an important part of the Canadian broadcasting ecosystem. In July 2019, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission licensed Caper Radio as a campus broadcaster located in Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton University. This marked a milestone in the evolution of a broadcaster that started as a cafeteria stereo system in the 90s and which enjoys cultural significance within the local creative arts milieu. Within the context of Canadian broadcasting policy and regulation, this article draws on archival data and semi-structured interviews to account for Caper Radio’s evolution. It argues that Caper Radio has historically existed on the margins not just of the broadcast spectrum but also within its host university. However, as its recent licensing and shift towards more engagement by institutional stakeholders show, Caper Radio continues to be relevant as a campus broadcaster. The history of Caper Radio contributes to the literature on campus broadcasting in Canada.