TODAY is Protect My Public Media Day!
#ProtectMyPublicMedia
Message from NFCB
Community radio is more than just a signal—it’s a lifeline, a storyteller, a musical companion plus a trusted source of local news and culture. As champions of independent media, we know how vital this work is. Public media faces a critical moment.
We are at a crossroads. With the current continuing resolution set to expire on March 14, Congress will soon make critical decisions that could impact the future of public media. Funding cuts threaten the essential services that community radio provides—trusted local news, emergency alerts, and cultural programming that reflect the heart of our communities.
That’s why today, March 6, 2025, is Protect My Public Media Day—a nationwide day of action to celebrate and defend public media. NFCB is joining public media stations and supporters across the country to make our voices heard and ensure a strong future for local, independent media.
Congressman Mark Amodei (R-NV), Public Broadcasting Caucus Co-Chair, shares why he values public media and the importance of making your voice heard in 2025.
How You Can Take Action
- Sign the Pledge
Stand up for public media by signing the pledge at Protect My Public Media. Every signature counts in showing Congress that public media matters! - Share Your Story
Why does public media matter to you? Share your experience on social media using #ProtectMyPublicMedia and let your community know why funding public media is critical. - Contact Your Representatives
Your voice makes a difference! Call or email your representatives and urge them to support continued funding for public media. Let them know that community radio keeps us informed, connected, and safe. - Spread the Word
Encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to take part in Protect My Public Media Day. The more voices we raise, the stronger our message!
Federal Support Keeps Community Radio Strong
Community radio relies on federal funding to:
- Cover music licensing fees, allowing stations to broadcast and stream diverse music.
- Maintain the interconnection system, ensuring stations can share and distribute content nationally.
- Strengthen emergency alerting infrastructure to keep communities informed and safe.
With 57% of NFCB member stations operating on budgets of $100,000 or less, every dollar of federal support matters. 63% of our members are serving rural regions. Those communities across the country are small towns and rural neighborhoods with a population of 1 million or less residents. Community radio runs on small budgets but delivers a big impact—preserving local voices, cultures, and stories for all. Whether it’s breaking news, independent music, or emergency alerts, community stations are a lifeline for millions of people
For just $1.60 per person per year, federal funding powers community radio and public media stations across the country. But its future isn’t guaranteed.
Public media connects, educates, informs, and inspires. Let’s stand together to ensure it thrives for generations to come.
In solidarity with you all,
The National Federation of Community Broadcasters Team
