Last night, Congress passed a bill that eliminates all federal funding for public media, including support for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB). This decision strikes at the heart of stations like WXXI and the vital services we provide every day—local journalism, trusted national reporting, educational programming, emergency communications, and the stories that connect and reflect our diverse communities.
We are deeply disappointed. And we know many of you are too.
But let us be clear: WXXI is not going anywhere.
We’ve been here for Rochester for close to 60 years, and we remain committed to serving you — no matter what.
This will be a challenging time. CPB funding has been a foundational part of our budget and mission. Losing it will force us to make difficult decisions. But thanks to your support, we’re not starting from zero. We have strong partnerships, deep community roots, and a team that believes deeply in the power of public media.
What happens next?
- We will be transparent with you in the coming weeks about how this decision affects WXXI.
- We will work with our board and partners to assess the financial and operational impact.
- And we will ask for your continued engagement as we fight to protect what public media means to Rochester.
To everyone who called, wrote, donated, or shared their story — thank you. Your voice mattered. And it will continue to matter.
We’re still here. We’re still listening. We’re still telling the stories that matter.
All the best,
Chris Hastings
President & CEO
WXXI Public Media
P.S. We’re moving into an uncharted future, but WXXI’s commitment to this community remains unwavering. The best way to stand with us now is through monthly giving.