DENVER -- The 2013 National Conference for Media Reform wrapped up Sunday after three days of inspiring speeches, in-depth discussions and hands on workshops. Thousands are heading back to their communities across the country and around the globe reinvigorated and inspired to create better media.

At Saturday evening’s keynote rally, Susan Crawford, the former White House technology adviser, urged the audience to hold President Obama accountable to the public, and not just the voices of industry when choosing the next chair of the Federal Communications Commission.

“My name comes up in discussions about the new FCC chair,” she said. “In the world we thought we grew up in, my name shouldn't be a problem. But it is a problem. They have to worry about what the telecom industry would think of me.”

“It is government's role to stand up against the ethic that might makes right,” she added.

Free Press President and CEO Craig Aaron echoed the call for a public interest champion at the helm of the FCC.

“This time, we need a true public servant,” Aaron said. “We need someone who will use this powerful position to stand up to industry giants. The FCC already has enough industry lobbyists. It needs a leader.”

Actress Evangeline Lilly inspired the audience and recounted her own personal journey to media reform.

“This movement has become a powerful force enabling and emboldening people like me,” Lilly said. "Big media might have money and might and influence and power, but we have passion and dedication and we will keep coming,” she said.  “We are the good guys in this tale of revelation and revolution and we will not give up.”

The conference concluded Sunday with lively presentations by media reform and media justice leaders, including Malkia Cyril of the Center for Media Justice and actor/activist Melissa Fitzgerald, along with a panel discussion on empowering young women activists. Comedian Hari Kondabolu delivered the closing performance.

“This was a truly energizing and inspiring event,” Aaron said. “We are thrilled with the connections made here in Denver, and we hope that all of the conference participants will join us in the fight for better media.”