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.
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 ed@pacifica.org.
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.