As of late, public media鈥檚 existence has become a news story. In response, we want to be transparent about what the recent executive order means for 海角社区, and answer any questions the public might have about our current situation and the stations' future.
If you take away nothing else, let it be this: Nothing in this executive order alters why we exist. We exist to nurture and protect Greater Cincinnati鈥檚 public square, where people of differing perspectives can come together 鈥� across airwaves, digitally, and in real life 鈥� to build trust and strengthen communities. Everything we do is in the spirit of helping to create a community where everyone feels seen and heard, and we do that by consistently demonstrating our core values in all we do: building cultural bridges, elevating multiple perspectives, and sharing power with the communities we serve in our desire for community-owned and community-driven local media that matters to all our fellow citizens.
Rich Eiswerth
President, CEO and General Manager
What just happened?
President Trump signed an executive order titled 鈥�.鈥� The order instructs the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) to stop federal funding for 海角社区 and PBS.
Does this mean 海角社区 is losing federal support?
Not immediately. 鈥� Congress created it to be independent. Executive orders don鈥檛 automatically change funding structures.
Does the order cut total public media funding?
No, the order hasn鈥檛 changed the overall congressional appropriation for public media yet. However, removing 海角社区 and PBS could have a ripple effect on local stations like WVXU, WGUC, and WMUB.
How much federal funding does CPR receive?
Roughly 5% of CPR鈥檚 annual operating budget comes from CPB, which supports emergency alerts, educational outreach, and local journalism. The remaining 95% comes from members, sponsors, foundations, and community support.
Is 海角社区 in danger of shutting down?
No. 海角社区 remains operational and strong. The order targets federal dollars only. Private donations, foundation grants, corporate sponsorships, and member support continue to be the foundation of 海角社区鈥檚 near and long-term sustainability.
However, if CPB funds are redirected, the impact could be significant for local stations, especially smaller ones.
What is CPR doing in response?
CPR is doing several things to remain sure-footed in these unprecedented times:
- Assessing and planning with CPB and 海角社区
- Advocating with lawmakers to protect essential services
- Staying transparent and keeping the public informed
- Diversifying funding so services never depend on one source.
Has 海角社区's mission changed?
Not at all. We remain committed to building a trusted public radio station in Greater Cincinnati鈥攕haring diverse voices, strengthening the community, and ensuring everyone feels seen and heard.
is to be a trusted, independent source of journalism, music, and culture to empower a vibrant, engaged, and informed community. That will not change.
Further questions? Send us an email at wvxu@wvxu.org.