This July 4th, turn off your tv and turn on to independence.

We’re declaring our independence from Mainstream Media! We’re reporting news you won’t hear on “the big 3.” We’re playing great artists that clear channel’s computer playlists have ignored. We’re creating outstanding video content free from the shackles of the 30 minute timeslot!

Who are we? We’re just like you! We’re creative individuals who were sick of being force-fed the same focus-group distilled junk year after year.

On July Fourth, declare your own independence from Mainstream Media. Turn off your TV and turn on your computer. Plug an MP3 player with great music podcasts into your stereo while you barbeque. Watch an indie movie or a video podcast. Read news that’s not being reported on CNN.

Just use your favorite tagging tool on July 4th to search for “July4us” to find other blogs, podcasts, and shows declaring their independence, and changing the face of media. Here’s some handy links:

If you’re a podcaster, please include the promo below in your show to help spread the word, and encourage people to go “mainstream free” on the 4th!

I love that this idea isn’t tied to anyone’s show, and we can all join in by using the tag. I deliberately don’t say my name or showname in the promo for that reason.

Original credit for the idea goes to Bryan Person, Chris S. Penn, and the rest of the New England Podcasters list who brainstormed!

UPDATE: Rocketboom correspondent, vlogger, and all around awesome guy Steve Garfield has popped in to stake his rightful claim to the original july4us concept. Right on Steve, sorry to misplace the credit for the amazing idea!