04/04/2025
The Pacifica Foundation Charts a Bold Path Forward Amidst
21st Century Challenges
Los Angeles, CA – April 4, 2025 – The Pacifica Foundation, a historic leader in
independent media, is undergoing a transformative evolution to meet the unprecedented
challenges of the 21st century. Founded in 1946 to champion free speech and journalistic
integrity at stations KPFA, KPFK, KPFT, WPFW, WBAI, and across a vast affiliate
network, Pacifica now faces new political, technological, and cultural shifts that demand a
strategic restructuring.
Adapting to a Changing Media Landscape
The media landscape has undergone a seismic shift since Pacifica’s inception. Radio is no
longer the primary platform for information and dialogue, especially among younger
generations who turn to digital media. Additionally, demographic shifts reflect a more
diverse and dynamic listener base, necessitating innovative approaches to engagement
and programming.
Beyond technological and demographic changes, the political and cultural climate has
reached a historic turning point. From the Cold War to the COVID-19 pandemic, Pacifica
has been a vital resource for public discourse. However, today’s challenges—ranging from
attacks on free speech to the erosion of democratic institutions—demand an even stronger
commitment to independent journalism and media integrity.
Strengthening Pacifica’s Governance and Operations
Recognizing the need for structural reform, the Pacifica Foundation has enacted
significant governance and management changes, including:
New Bylaws and Board Elections: Implementing direct elections of the national
board by listeners and staff, reducing election costs, and clarifying governance
roles to improve efficiency.
Court-Ordered Mediation and Settlement: On April 3, 2025, the Pacifica National
Board ratified a settlement resolving the 2021 Pacifica Foundation vs. New Day
Pacifica court case. This agreement consolidates governance structures and
redirects critical financial resources to operations and programming.
Redefining Local Station Boards’ Role: Under the new framework, Local Station
Boards will shift their focus from managerial duties to fundraising and community
outreach, strengthening Pacifica’s financial foundation and engagement efforts.
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Investing in Pacifica’s Future
The Pacifica Foundation is committed to building a resilient and dynamic infrastructure,
with key initiatives including:
Expanded Collaborative Programming: Leveraging a network of over 200 affiliate
stations, Pacifica has enhanced national programming, including coverage of the
2024 Republican and Democratic National Conventions.
Archival Preservation: In collaboration with the American Archive of Public
Broadcasting, WGBH Educational Foundation, and the Library of Congress—with
funding from the Mellon Foundation—Pacifica is preserving and digitizing its vast
archives for future generations.
Regulatory Compliance & Financial Stability: The organization is
successfully updating its financial audits, reduced outstanding debt by
58%—including the full repayment of a $2.1 million loan and a decrease in
aged payables—and entered into a consent decree with the FCC to ensure
network-wide compliance.
Looking Ahead: National Board Elections in 2026
Pacifica’s governance reforms will be solidified with the upcoming National Board of
Directors and Local Station Board elections in 2026, marking a new chapter of
transparency, member-driven leadership, and institutional strength.
As Pacifica embarks on this critical transformation, we invite our dedicated listeners,
supporters, and volunteers to join us in fortifying independent media. Your contributions
and engagement are vital in sustaining the mission of free speech, accurate reporting, and
progressive public discourse.
For more information and to review the Bylaws, please visit pacifica.org or contact
Stephanie Wells, Pacifica Foundation Executive Director at [email protected].
About the Pacifica Foundation
The Pacifica Foundation is a pioneering independent media organization operating a
national radio network, including stations, in Berkeley, Los Angeles, Houston, Washington
DC, New York and through its over 200 affiliate stations across the US and beyond. Since
1946, Pacifica has been at the forefront of free speech, investigative journalism, and
cultural programming, serving diverse communities nationwide.
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