The boycott groups asking conventions and entertainers to stay away from downtown Cincinnati have taken their call for economic sanctions to the airwaves.

        A 30-second radio ad featuring Cincinnati Black United Front president Rev. Damon Lynch III debuted Wednesday on WCIN-AM (1480). In the ad, the Rev. Mr. Lynch tells listeners Cincinnati is under economic sanctions for its treatment of African-Americans.

        “Police brutality continues and economic exclusion is the order of the day,” the Rev. Mr. Lynch says. “We can no longer tolerate this disparity in treatment.”

        He urges listeners to join in a boycott of downtown conventions, concerts, plays, restaurants and shopping.

        “What can you do for justice and black empowerment?” he asks. “You can help us ensure that if entertainers violate the boycott they'll perform to empty seats.

        “Together we honor the memory of our ancestors and together we can build a future for our children,” the Rev. Mr. Lynch adds. “And always remember to buy black.”

        The radio spot premiered four days before the African-American music concert Soulfest, which boycotters have identified as their next target.

        Soulfest, which features entertainers such as Frankie Beverly & Maze, The Isley Brothers and Lakeside, is sponsored by another local black radio station, WDBZ-AM (1230), “The Buzz.” The concert will be at U.S. Bank Arena (formerly Firstar Center) on Saturday.

        Nathaniel Livingston Jr., a coalition spokesman, said the group will lead a demonstration at Soulfest from 6 to 8 p.m.

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