The Constitution safeguards free speech and press. The League of Women Voters of the United States, in their position statement on “The Decline of Local News and its impact on Democracy” adopted by concurrence by delegate to Convention in June 2024, states that the government should support conditions for credible local journalism to thrive. They emphasize that access to reliable local news is essential for informed voting, and that news organizations must control their content.
The White House has issued an Executive Order proposing the elimination of federal funding in its annual budget request for the Public Broadcasting Station (PBS) and National Public Radio (NPR). Additionally, it plans to rescind funding that was previously approved by Congress.
Many individuals are not aware of the extensive support provided by National Public Radio. While PBS News Hour and its array of excellent programs are widely recognized, it is important to note the contributions these entities make:
- The distribution of life-saving emergency alerts and public media programs to households nationwide.
- PBS WARN, the system that powers Wireless Emergency Alerts to mobile phones and provides public safety officials with real-time situational awareness tools.
- Research-backed educational content and tools, used by families, educators and community organizations to improve children’s literacy, math, and science skills – proven effective by over 100 studies.
- A national-local partnership that ensures curated programming meets each community’s unique needs, while benefiting from the scale and support of national infrastructure.
- Public media is the life blood of our communities. It more than just the news. It educates, protects, inspires and builds community. I am 74 years old, and I cannot remember a time when I was not tuned into their diversified programs.
We also have the right to choose the news station we judge to be sharing the truth. In today’s world it is difficult to decipher what the truth is. We need the opportunity to explore all avenues of broadcasting.
It is time to defend our freedom of speech and freedom of the press. Email or write a letter to the President and your Congressional Representatives. Send it to family members and friends ask them to do the same. A sample letter can be found in the Advocacy Forum*. Feel free to use as is or make it your own.
Reprinted in part from PBS. To read the full article go to: Urge Congress: Save Public Media
*Members may join the Advocacy Forum by selecting Advocacy as their interest. For instructions go to the Advocacy page and scroll down to the bottom.
