Protect Public Media: PSA scripts, part one
Give voice to the value of local radio, emergency response
“Protect My Public Media Day” bought local radio some time. According to a report from the event’s organizers, Congress adopted a continuing resolution that only funds public media through September. Supporters made thousands of calls to Congress on March 6 and sent 102,000 emails—about one-third of 352,000 pieces of communication sent to Congress members so far defending public media. See coalition members here.
The National Federation of Community Broadcasters has prepared some sample scripts for on-air fund drives or emails so that your community can hear from local voices how recent actions by the FCC and FEMA impact grass roots radio.
If you need more context, NFCB published an excellent explainer here, including what cuts could really mean to local radio.
The real risk of defunding CPB lies elsewhere—in the smaller, often overlooked stations that make up the heart of public media’s infrastructure.
These include Tribal stations, community radio stations, low-power FM broadcasters, Spanish-language stations, public access TV, and even religious nonprofit radio stations. These are the communication hubs for rural and underserved communities, providing essential local news, cultural programming and public safety information. Many of these stations are in red states, where they are lifelines for communities that have few other media options.
Here are a few scripts to get you going, and we will publish more next week.
Script: A Safety Net for News and Information
"When hurricanes hit, when wildfires spread, when emergencies happen—who is there to keep you informed? Community radio. We don’t disappear behind paywalls or cut coverage because of corporate interests. We are here for YOU, 24/7, no matter what."
"But now, with federal funding on the chopping block, we need your help more than ever. Without your support, local, reliable, and independent radio could disappear."
"Protect community radio. Call [Phone Number] or visit [Website URL] to give now. Every contribution matters. Let’s keep our station strong together."
Script: Keeping Local Voices Alive
"Imagine a world where only the biggest corporate voices control the airwaves. No local news. No diverse perspectives. No space for artists, activists, and everyday people to share their stories. That’s what’s at stake if public radio is defunded."
"Community radio exists because YOU believe in the power of independent media. We are powered by our community—by your voices, your stories, and your support. Without federal funding, listener support becomes even more essential."
"If you believe in free and accessible media, make your donation today at [Website URL] or call [Phone Number]. We can’t do this without you. Thank you for standing up for local voices."
Script: The Power of Independent Media
"Right now, independent media is under attack. The push to defund public radio is an effort to weaken community voices and strengthen corporate control over information. But we won’t let that happen. Not here. Not now."
"Community radio is where real conversations happen. It’s where music, culture, and news come together in a way no other media can offer. It’s where YOU matter."
"Help us fight for independent radio. Call [Phone Number] or go to [Website URL] to donate now. Your support keeps us on the air and keeps corporate interests from drowning out community voices."
Script: The Music Stops Without SoundExchange Support
"Imagine turning on your radio and hearing… silence. No local music, no independent artists, no diverse voices filling the airwaves. That’s what’s at stake if federal funding for public media disappears."
"Did you know that community radio stations rely on federal support to help cover SoundExchange royalties? These royalties ensure that the artists we love—local musicians, cultural icons, and emerging talents—get paid when their music is played on the air."
"Without federal funding, many stations won’t be able to afford these costs, forcing them to cut music programming or even shut down."
"We can’t let that happen. Your support keeps independent music alive on community radio. Call [Phone Number] or go to [Website URL] and make your pledge now. Every dollar helps ensure that artists get paid, and that local voices continue to be heard!"
This FCC Actions Alert is produced by the volunteers at the Community Media Assistance Project. We monitor many sources of information about the Federal Communications Commission, federal communications law and community developments important to your station and your community. The information provided in this newsletter is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial or legal advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content herein. If you have a news tip, please email us at betty@c-map.org.
Communications Act of 1934, Sect. 326.
Nothing in this Act shall be understood or construed to give the Commission the power of censorship over the radio communications or signals transmitted by any radio station, and no regulation or condition shall be promulgated or fixed by the Commission which shall interfere with the right of free speech by means of radio communication.