Public Broadcasting is threatened by Congress -- let your voice be heard

Congress will soon be taking a critical vote to reduce or even eliminate all federal support for local public television and radio stations.

While membership is still our largest source of revenue, federal funding does provide an important share of WXXI’s funding.  It helps us leverage private support that allows WXXI to deliver thoughtful commercial-free programming that serves the entire Rochester region. Tens of thousands of children watch our educational, Ready-to-Learn programming every day.  Thousands more tune in to our radio services, including local news and talk shows that can only be found at WXXI.  Our music stations promote arts and culture, and work closely to support other institutions, such as the RPO, the Eastman School of Music and Hochstein. Breathtaking images from Nature and NOVA make our fascinating world so much more accessible.

From education to public affairs to arts and culture, WXXI makes a positive impact on our community each and every day.  If federal funding is significantly reduced or eliminated, it will undercut these efforts and result in a loss of programs and services. Some say that there is no longer a need for federal support for public broadcasting. Others believe it’s one of the worthiest places to invest federal dollars. More importantly, though, is what you think.

We hope you will call your Member of Congress (see list below) and tell them what you think of public broadcasting and the proposed cuts. Congress could take action on these cuts soon, so please act now.

You can also show your support by visiting 170millionamericans.org and sign up and receive updates.  Because the future of WXXI and public broadcasting is at stake, it is important that your elected representatives hear directly from you about whether or not funding for public broadcasting should be continued.

If you have recently become a member of WXXI – or renewed your membership during our recent pledge drive – thank you! Your support is at the heart of everything we do. And, if you feel strongly enough about federal funding for public broadcasting, let your voice be heard.

Members of Congress, and their phone numbers. Given the timing of the proposal to eliminate funding for CPB, calling is preferable to writing.

29th District: Honorable Thomas Reed

District phone: (607) 654-7566

Washington phone: (202) 225-3161

Web site: http://reed.house.gov/

28th District: Honorable Louise Slaughter
District phone: (585) 232-4850

Washington phone: (202) 225-3615

Web site:http://www.louise.house.gov/

25th District: Honorable Ann Marie Buerkle
District phone: (585) 336-7217

Washington phone: (202) 225-3701

Web site: http://buerkle.house.gov/

24th District: Honorable Richard Hanna
District phone: (315) 724-9740

Washington phone: (202) 225-3665

Web site: http://hanna.house.gov/