Published June 4, 2015 in the LA Progressive
Pacifica is a nonprofit corporation that consists of 5 fm radio stations, a 60 year old archive and about 100 affiliated stations. The five stations are:
- KPFA, 94.1 in the San Francisco Bay area
- WPFW, 89.3 in Washington, D.C.
- KPFT, 90.1 in Houston,
- WBAI, 99.5 in New York City and
- KPFK, 90.7 in Los Angeles.
These stations are unique in that they take no corporate underwriting. They also have boards ELECTED by listeners and staff. Anyone who is a member (you can become a member with a donation of $25) can run for the board and vote in the local board elections. The Pacifica National Board, which governs all of the network, has members that are elected by the local boards.
Elections for the local boards are just about to begin. The nomination period is starting on June 15th.
Pacifica is in a sorry state of dysfunction at all five stations. Every one has falling vital statistics. The stations have fewer and fewer listeners, membership is down, and so is income. This trend has been going on for many years.
For over 60 years, Pacifica stations have spoken out bravely on issues that are controversial, challenge corporations and political parties, and give voice to ideas outside of the mainstream.
Also, in the past, about 10% of Pacifica’s annual income came from Corporation for Public Broadcasting grant funding. Pacifica has lost its eligibility for CPB funding for various reasons, including loss of listenership, noncompliance with open meeting requirements, and poor financial accounting. This has resulted in the loss of over $2 million in the past few years and is indicative of poor management and governance.
For over 60 years, Pacifica stations have spoken out bravely on issues that are controversial, challenge corporations and political parties, and give voice to ideas outside of the mainstream. This network should not be allowed to fail.
So what can you do about it?
Get involved with the Pacifica Local Board Elections that are happening NOW! Become a member for $25 and either run for your local board or help recruit people who would provide Pacifica with good governance.
It’s that simple. Pacifica is our collective conscience and a constant irritation to the powers that be.
It now needs your support.
Please help.
Grace Aaron