No Gods No Masters: 90.9 FM CJSW
NO GODS NO MASTERS SERIES: CJSW
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Broadcasting 24 hours a day on 90.9 FM and around the world online and via app from the heart of the University of Calgary, CJSW Radio has been making airwaves for more than 40 years. When @cjsw says it’s a campus and community radio station, they say it with their whole chest and put a whole lot of emphasis on the community part. And they walk that talk, too. They’re the only media outlet in Calgary required to play local, independent music. They also provide spaces and opportunities for musicians to play live on the radio, including from their tent at Prince’s Island during last summer's Calgary Folk Music Fest.
Support, participation, and involvement at all levels is open to students and the public at large. According to Marketing and Development Director, Joni Doornenbal (@goldn_crisp), CJSW is “a social enterprise dressed up as a radio station”. CJSW has provided $50,000 in free on-air advertising to local arts non-profits over the past year alone. They’re focused on original programming that reflects the uniqueness, interests, voices, and values of their local community while prioritizing skill development and inclusion at all costs.
There’s no end to the list of things that make CJSW so singular, both in the city and areas far further flung. Who wouldn’t want to be their friend? And, while friendship is free, you can unlock card-carrying friend status for the low, low price of a $35 donation…which unlocks discounts far exceeding that paltry sum (including 10% off in our taproom). Donations allow CJSW to continue supporting local arts and businesses and help the station remain an independent and algorithm-free platform where diverse community voices can be heard. Tune in and give back. Their Funding Drive is on now.
2500 University Drive NW, Calgary
CFSW DJs spin live at Annex monthly when $1 from every Band Wagon pint go directly to CJSW
NO GODS NO MASTERS Series: Contemporary Calgary
More than just an art gallery and former planetarium, Contemporary Calgary is a first-class cultural hub. And, more than just art and artists, Contemporary Calgary showcases community and rewards curiosity. Contemporary Calgary hosts more events than you can shake a paintbrush at—from galas to drag shows, artist panels to film screenings, they partner with diverse local groups like CIFF, One Yellow Rabbit, and The Cabaret Company to keep things fresh and community-focused.
The CC team is small but their impact is anything but. Many of them grew up in Calgary and find themselves working to build the arts scene they wished they'd had sooner. From youth workshops and school visits to major exhibitions that mix global and local artists, they’re committed to creating a world-class space that celebrates art in a way that includes everyone.
Their brand of inclusion isn’t lip service, either. They put a lot of thought and effort into eliminating barriers to entry, offering free nights, cheap memberships, and even a library pass that can be shared among different families. Their Under-24 program lets young people pay by donation, and they mark the first Thursday of every month with a party complete with DJ and drinks—including Annex’s own. With a big expansion on the way, Contemporary Calgary’s just getting started. You owe it to yourself to tag along for the ride.