National Black Church Initiative Urges 15.7 Million Members to Withhold Contributions to NPR
Washington DC – The National Black Church Initiative (NBCI) a faith-based coalition of 34,000 churches comprised of 15 denominations and 15.7 million African American churchgoers calls on African Americans to withhold contributions to NPR in response to their stifling of minority voices through the cancellation of Tell me More.
The weekday NPR program was a strong voice on issues of race, identity and faith, and host Michel Martin was a crucial voice for the Black Church community. Tell me More’s cut was attributed to budget cuts, alongside the 28 positions that were eliminated along with the show.
In a tough letter to NPR CEO Jarl Mohn, Rev. Anthony Evans, NBCI President, went on to say
This cancellation disheartens us deeply. Tell me More is a brilliantly formatted radio program that showcases a multitude of viewpoints. Michel Martin is a wonderful host, whose interview skills unquestionably represent some of the best in the nation. The show represents some a shining light for African American broadcasters, and serves a much-needed role of minority voices in the media. NPR has abandoned the African American community, and we must turn a deaf ear to you.
As a result of this cancellation, NBCI has urged its 15.7 million members to not consider donations to NPR, and to stop donations that are currently underway. The Black Church cannot be expected to donate to a station who has failed minority voices in America.
