There is no place for racism in our society. We must work together as a community to ensure we no longer teach, or tolerate it. PBS Wisconsin’s mission charges us to “enrich, educate and entertain diverse audiences of children and adults.” Wisconsin Public Radio's vision is that we “help people build better lives, better communities and a better world.” As we have done for more than 100 years, we will use education and human stories to offer new perspectives, to connect communities, promote civic and civil dialogue, and explore our most challenging issues.
In the wake of the killing of George Floyd, and the continuing public outcry, and as the heart-wrenching pain and anguish of a nation continues to find voice and purpose, you will continue to see and hear our content reflect our commitment to diversity, inclusion, justice and accountability. Our work, and the way we work, is informed by your feedback and enriched by your input.
Public media is a place for ideas and for learning. It is an inclusive platform for otherwise unheard voices and for expanding our understanding of each other. We are not afraid of difficult issues nor to stand against racism and intolerance. We offer content that provides hope and challenges perspectives. Our audiences appreciate, support, and encourage this.
We know we can, and must, do better, and do more. You can trust that this is our relentless goal.
We will keep doing what we do best — telling stories, shining light, and fostering robust dialogue. And, we promise to use our reach and our resources to bring important content to you to foster discussion and change.
You will see and hear new programming and schedule changes as we make room for timely content addressing these issues. You will see curated slices of our past work that seeks to remind us of our resilience and our need to stand together.
Our news and digital teams will be focused on issues that help you as an engaged citizen make informed personal and political choices. Our talk shows will bring new and important voices to the air and seek your voices in search of solutions to these profoundly important problems. Our production teams will share Wisconsin history and personal stories that connect us as people and a state. Our education and programming teams will continue to work together to offer and create educational media that serves all learners equitably and engages learners to understand the importance of perspective. Our arts producers will bring you work from local and national artists and performers that explores our humanity and soothes our souls through shared experiences.
This is a time for listening and learning — for our nation and for us. This is also a time for acting with purpose. Just as we stand supporting our increasingly diverse and talented staff, we stand to support robust and challenging conversations and a platform for many voices.
As we stand with the citizens of Wisconsin against racism, listening and learning will inform our action knowing that diverse voices enrich our lives and our spirits and challenge our perspectives. We will address challenging issues both directly and over time, understanding these are places where our ideals are both tested and understood. And, in our work we will aim to provide engaged citizens with context and inspiration to affect change.