Help save KPLU, the state’s only unionized NPR station

TACOMA (March 14, 2016) — KPLU, the only union-organized National Public Radio station in Washington state, is threatened with extinction and its 18 SAG-AFTRA employees could lose their jobs. But you and your unions or community organizations can help preserve this unique, independent source of news and jazz/blues for the KPLU staff, listeners, and South Sound community.

On November 2015, Pacific Lutheran University made the surprise announcement that it was selling KPLU to the University of Washington-owned KUOW. Under the proposal, KPLU would switch its split format of news plus jazz and blues to become an all-music station while KUOW would retain all-news programming. KUOW would not be required to keep any staff members and KPLU’s unique locally produced jazz, blues and news programming would be lost forever.

After a tremendous outcry of opposition to the proposal, a community-based group was granted the opportunity to make its own offer to buy KPLU. Employees and supporters created an independent nonprofit organization to make the purchase. To keep KPLU independent and become a community-licensed radio station, the group must raise at least $7 million by June 30. As of March 11, the group has raised just more than $2.3 million.

Here’s what you and your organization can do to help:

●  Make a generous donation to the Save KPLU. An application to have Friends of 88-5 FM recognized as a 501(c)(3) exempt organization has been filed with the IRS. Your gift will be deductible for federal income tax purposes IF and when the application is approved. The tax ID number is 81-1095651.

●  Get the word out by sharing this information with others. (Download/print a flier.)

●  Post in social media. Shareable images and content can be found at #SaveKPLU on Twitter, and KPLU.org on Facebook.

●  Go to KPLU.org for more information and donation totals, including Frequently Asked Questions about the Save KPLU campaign.

The staff and listeners of KPLU thank you for your help!