Dear WHRO Community,
On May 1, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order directing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to cease federal funding for NPR and PBS. While this executive order targets national entities, its ramifications extend to local stations like WHRO Public Media, putting more than just programming at risk. It jeopardizes access to essential educational tools that families across our region rely on every day.
WHRO is more than just a broadcaster—we're your community's classroom, newsroom, and neighbor. As the only public media station in the nation owned by a collaboration of 21 local public school divisions, our mission is deeply rooted in education and community service.
Federal funding supports public safety communications by enabling public media stations to maintain and upgrade the infrastructure necessary for delivering lifesaving alerts and warnings during emergencies.
The value of public media is recognized across the political spectrum. A recent survey found that 83% of voters, including 70% of those who voted for President Trump, support continued federal funding for public television.
We are actively reviewing the implications of this executive order in collaboration with our national partners and will keep you informed as the situation develops.
Your support is more vital than ever. By championing WHRO, you help ensure that we continue to make our community smarter and happier.
Champion WHRO—Because What We Do, We Do Together
Here's how you can champion our mission today:
- Share our story: Let your community know why WHRO matters.
- Become a member: Your commitment fuels lifelong learning across our region. Join here.
- Advocate: Talk to your network and local leaders about the value of public media. Visit ProtectMyPublicMedia.org to make your voice heard now.
When you champion WHRO, you're lifting up learners, amplifying local voices, and ensuring our region continues to thrive through knowledge and connection.
Together, we can ensure that WHRO remains a beacon of education and culture, making our community smarter and happier.
Thank you for your support,
Bert