You may have recently heard about threats to funding for some public broadcasting stations. How does that affect 88.9 WERS?
So, what’s happening?
An Executive Order was signed directing the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) and all federal agencies to cease federal funds, both directly and indirectly, to NPR and PBS. It also attempts to restrict how local stations use their independent funding. This action jeopardizes the partnerships and funding that power public radio stations across the country.
What is the Corporation for Public Broadcasting?
The Corporation for Public Broadcasting was created by legislation with the passing of the Public Broadcasting Act in 1967. The CPB is a non-profit funded by federal dollars that supports more than 1,500 radio and television stations across the country. Currently, it receives $500 million in funding, less than 0 The support comes in the form of grants but also infrastructure, programming and other resources.
And WERS gets some of the money?
We do. Annually, we receive over $116,000 from the CPB.
What does WERS use that money for?
Many things. We use that money to pay for the rent where our transmitters are located, but also, our radio license and to pay for the music. We are a small, member supported radio station so even the loss of even a small amount of funds can result in a loss of programming.
So what is going to happen?
The situation is in flux right now, and it is unclear whether the Executive Order has any legal weight. Congress is currently in progress of reconciling the budget, and that could be another means of defunding public radio.
But we want our community to know that we will always be your musical oasis on the radio dial. We are fortunate that we have the support of listeners in Boston and across the country.
I want to help. What can I do?
WAYS TO GET INVOLVED:
- Give a financial gift! Can be made at wers.org/give or by sending a check to WERS Membership at Emerson College, 120 Boylston St, Boston MA 02116
- Have a vehicle or property you’re looking to part ways with? Check out wers.careasy.org or call 877-937-7889
- Ask your employer about company matching gifts
Check out our merchandise at the WERS store at wers.org/store
No matter what, there’s always a need for a radio station that puts the music first.
Your financial support helps to expand our music library not only to include what just came out, but deep cuts that you love from older, more established artists.
Your financial support is an investment in the power of all types of music – to affect, inspire, and bring us together.
