Why Cutting Public Broadcasting Hurts Missouri Communities

By Katerina Canyon, Executive Director – Peace Economy Project

At Peace Economy Project, we believe in investing in the building blocks of a peaceful society—education, access to information, community empowerment, and shared understanding. That’s why I wrote a recent op-ed for the Missouri Independent titled “Why Cutting Public Broadcasting Hurts Missouri Communities.”

Public broadcasting is not just about Sesame Street or All Things Considered. For many Missourians—especially in rural areas and under-resourced communities—public radio and television are a vital lifeline. They provide trusted news, cultural storytelling, educational programming for children, and critical information during emergencies.

But now, that lifeline is under threat.

The Trump administration has proposed eliminating all federal funding for the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB), a move that would devastate local NPR and PBS stations across the country, including right here in Missouri. While the Pentagon budget soars past $1 trillion, programs that cost Americans just $1.35 per year—programs that inform, educate, and unify—are being targeted for elimination.

This isn’t just a budget issue. It’s a values issue.

In my op-ed, I write:

“When we spend more on missiles than on minds, we undermine both our security and our democracy.”

This is why Peace Economy Project continues to advocate for a reallocation of public funds—from militarism to human needs. Public broadcasting, like healthcare, education, and climate resilience, is one of the many areas where we could be investing in a more peaceful, informed, and equitable society.

🔗 Read the full op-ed in the Missouri Independent here: https://missouriindependent.com/2025/05/13/why-cutting-public-broadcasting-huts-missouri-communities/

We urge Missouri’s congressional leaders to stand up for our communities, our children, our storytellers—and for a vision of safety that begins with care, not control.

In solidarity,

Katerina Canyon

Executive Director, Peace Economy Project