1. United States
2. Ill.
3. Letter

In light of the recent executive order attempting to restrict federal funding for public media outlets like NPR and PBS, it is imperative that we take action to protect this vital source of independent journalism and educational programming. Public media plays a crucial role in our democracy by providing fact-based reporting, holding those in power accountable, and ensuring access to information for all communities, regardless of income level or location. The consequences of defunding public media would be severe. Many local stations, especially in rural areas, operate on shoestring budgets and rely heavily on this federal support to stay on the air. Eliminating this funding would widen the information gap, leaving numerous communities without access to trusted local news, emergency alerts, and educational resources for children and families. This would erode civic engagement and undermine the foundations of an informed citizenry. Public media exists to serve the public good, not corporate or political interests. Its independence and commitment to truth are more essential than ever in an era of rampant misinformation and media consolidation. The modest $1.60 per person in annual federal funding helps ensure public media can fulfill its mission of providing universal access to fact-based journalism and educational content while remaining free from undue influence. We must take a stand against this assault on free speech and open discourse. Visit protectmypublicmedia.org to contact your representatives and voice your support for preserving federal funding for public media. Stand with the public broadcasting network that serves our communities with integrity. A robust, independent media is vital to safeguarding our democratic principles and values. We cannot allow narrow political interests to jeopardize this shared resource that belongs to all Americans.