Black Public Media Launches Urgent Fundraising Drive Amid Federal Funding Cuts

In a bold stand against the erosion of Black voices in American media, Black Public Media (BPM) has kicked off a nationwide fundraising campaign following a devastating $1.8 million cut in federal funding. The organization, a cornerstone for independent Black storytelling since 1973, announced the initiative on Friday, aiming to rally nearly 2 million donors to sustain its mission of amplifying underrepresented narratives through public radio and television.

The funding slash, part of broader federal spending reductions under the current administration, threatens BPM's ability to produce award-winning documentaries and series like AFRO and Independent Lens. "This is not just about dollars; it's about the erasure of Black history and culture from the public airwaves," said BPM CEO Leslie Jones in a press release. The campaign, dubbed "Save Our Stories," will fund digital archives, youth journalism programs, and new content focused on contemporary issues like racial justice and climate impacts on Black communities.

Supporters, including celebrities like Ava DuVernay and journalists from The Root, have already pledged seed donations. Early contributions have reached $500,000, but BPM warns that without full recovery, several flagship programs could shutter by mid-2026. As Black media outlets face industry-wide challenges—declining ad revenue and biased advertiser practices—this effort underscores a resilient pushback. "We're not vanishing; we're evolving," Jones added.

The drive comes at a pivotal time, with Black-owned media comprising only 4% of U.S. outlets yet serving as vital lifelines for community news. Donations can be made via BPM's website, with matching grants available through partners like the Ford Foundation.

Works Cited

Fitzgerald, Toni. "How Black Public Media Is Fighting Back After Federal Spending Cuts." Forbes, 25 Oct. 2025, www.forbes.com/sites/tonifitzgerald/2025/10/25/how-black-public-media-is-fighting-back-after-federal-spending-cuts/. Accessed 25 Oct. 2025.