Hello Everyone,
Thank you once again for your continued commitment to keeping America informed and connected during an existential crisis that has touched all of us, personally and professionally.
I had a moment to reflect on a long walk last weekend and was trying to put this story into the context of the many breaking news stories I have covered through the years. The sheer dimension of this pandemic and the speed at which it is spreading, the invisible danger it poses to everyone, the courage of our journalists and technicians on the front lines every day -- all combine to underscore the extraordinary value NPR and Member stations are bringing to our audiences during this unprecedented upheaval.
I realized on my walk that not knowing when or how all this will end is the hardest part. It’s a loss of control at a moment when all you want is to see some hope emerge.
Just know that your work here in public media is providing the best possible hope for our audiences. Public radio’s incredible work is essential -- truthful, contextual, finding uplifting stories of hopefulness. The incredible work happening across the nation in every state is making this possible. The music, news, and informational programming you provide to your community is the light at the end of the tunnel for your audience.
One thing I do know for sure. We will get through this together. We will not only be there at the other end, we will get there knowing we made it easier for people to find their way, to do the right thing, and therefore to save lives. It is our highest calling as a journalistic organization. And you are meeting it every day.
I am proud to stand with you. We are public radio.
Onward!
John F. Lansing
President & CEO
NPR