 | The RootsAction Education Fund is forwarding this message from Pacifica leaders Jan Goodman (former vice-chair, Pacifica National Board), Evelia Jones-Gonzales (Pacifica National Board), Harvey Wasserman (chair, KPFK Local Station Board) and Zack Kaldveer (KPFA Local Station Board). Reviving Pacifica Radio: A Call to Action “We are in a battle for the heart and soul of Pacifica… At stake is whether Pacifica represents the highest standards of journalistic integrity, or a mix of snake oil quackery and fake radicalism.” – Sonali Kolhatkar, host of “Rising Up with Sonali” Pacifica Radio -- encompassing five urban radio stations (in the SF Bay Area, L.A., Houston, NY City and DC) and over 200 affiliated local and campus radio stations, and also broadcasting on various platforms – has stood for many decades as a beacon of unflinching journalism and unwavering commitment to social justice causes. However, the network’s survival is threatened today due to declining listenership and financial instability. It is imperative that we come together now to revive Pacifica and restore its position as one of the nation's premier platforms for progressive, independent news and discussion. The Urgent Need for Change: Over the past two decades, Pacifica has faced numerous challenges, including an unstable structure and a revolving door of 18 "permanent" and "interim" Executive Directors in just 21 years. Incompetent leadership and too often mediocre programming have resulted in a decline in listenership and donations. The network has been forced to sell two of its buildings, with the KPFK building currently up for sale in Los Angeles. If left unaddressed, Pacifica risks being acquired by right-wing extremist groups or evangelical Christian stations, further endangering U.S. democracy. |
| The Power of Pacifica Members: Fortunately, we still have the opportunity to turn the tide and rebuild Pacifica. Unlike other media networks, Pacifica's members have the power to elect local station board members and influence the network's direction. With the election period finally underway after a year's delay, it is crucial for individuals who care about the survival of Pacifica and independent media to become members and exercise their voting rights. Taking Action: To prevent Pacifica's failure, we urge you to become a member, or renew your possibly long abandoned membership and vote for the New Day slate. By making a sorely needed $25 donation at NewDayPacifica.org, you can join your local station and gain the ability to shape the network's future. Time is of the essence, as the deadline to become a member is rapidly approaching on June 30. Your participation is the key to saving Pacifica and independent media. Go to NewDayPacifica.org to get a link to join your local station. |
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| Sign up here to hear public intellectuals this Saturday discussing: Visualizing a strong, vibrant, influential Pacifica supported by millions of listener-members in diverse communities around the world and around the block. What will it take to get there? A forum including Alan Minsky, James Early, Sharon Kyle, Tatanka Bricca and many more. |
| Filling the Media Void: As the quality of corporate news continues to decline, Pacifica has the opportunity to fill a significant vacuum. Its unique position as a nationwide commercial-free and corporate-free platform for peace, social justice, environmental activism, LGBTQ+ rights, and youth empowerment makes it indispensable. However, this potential can only be realized through a definitive shift in leadership and programming. Join Today! By becoming a member and participating in the election, you can help revive Pacifica. Don't miss the June 30 deadline to become a member. Join us now and be the driving force behind the resurgence of a media platform that truly represents the highest standards of journalistic integrity and progressive values. Together, we can make the difference! Signed by:
Jan Goodman, former vice-chair, Pacifica National Board
Evelia Jones-Gonzales, Pacifica National Board
Harvey Wasserman, chair, KPFK Local Station Board
Zack Kaldveer, KPFA Local Station Board This is not an official communication from KPFA, KPFK, KPFT, WPFW or WBAI, their respective local station boards, or the Pacifica Foundation. |
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| Thank you! -- The RootsAction Education Fund team |
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