Preserving Native Voices: How We Can Support Tribal Radio

Arizona Community Foundation

In communities across the country, local radio is more than just music and news—it’s a vital connection that strengthens the fabric of our society. For many Tribal nations, especially in rural areas, radio stations serve as the primary source of life-saving emergency information, cultural programming, and language preservation. They are a lifeline, a source of identity, and a pillar of community strength.

More than 60 Tribal radio stations, including many serving the Navajo Nation and other Indigenous communities, recently lost a critical source of funding. Unexpected federal cuts from the Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB) have created significant financial shortfalls, jeopardizing the operations of these essential community assets.

In response to this urgent need, the Arizona Community Foundation is proud to partner with Native Public Media (NPM) to protect these voices. Together, we are mobilizing to ensure these stations not only survive but continue to thrive for generations to come.

A Lifeline for Indigenous Communities

Across vast regions where reliable broadband access remains a challenge, radio continues to be the most dependable communication tool. Tribal radio stations are the trusted voices that keep communities connected and informed, creating lasting bonds within their regions. They broadcast public safety alerts during emergencies, share local news that matters, and provide programming that preserves and promotes Indigenous languages and cultures.

For many Tribal communities, these stations represent identity, safety, and cultural survival. They are the storytellers, the guardians of tradition, and the daily companions for thousands of listeners who depend on their service.

“Although Tribal stations are reeling from federal cuts, they remain resilient because their communities rely on them for everything—public safety alerts, cultural connections, local language programming, and trusted news,” said Loris Taylor, President and CEO of Native Public Media. “This partnership with the Arizona Community Foundation signals hope. It tells Tribal broadcasters that they are not alone, and that philanthropy can help us preserve Native voices during one of the most consequential moments for Indigenous media.”

A Partnership for Immediate and Lasting Impact

To address both immediate needs and long-term sustainability, NPM has partnered with the ACF to establish two crucial funds that will empower lasting change:

1. The Tribal Station Fund: Created with an initial $1.8 million, this rapid-response fund provides immediate relief to stations facing operational shortfalls.

2. The Tribal Media Endowment Fund: Established with over $1 million, this endowment is designed to strengthen the long-term sustainability of Tribal stations nationwide, creating a permanent source of support for generations to come.

Meeting the Moment for Arizona and Beyond

The Arizona Community Foundation has a long history of serving as a statewide convener, addressing urgent needs that arise from funding reductions—from food insecurity to community resilience. This latest collaboration exemplifies our commitment to transparent, impactful partnerships.

“ACF is honored to help protect the vital communications infrastructure that Tribal communities depend on,” said Anna María Chávez, Esq., ACF President & CEO. “Native radio stations are pillars of community strength, cultural preservation, and public safety. In times of crisis, they connect families, share critical information, and uphold the stories that shape identity. Together with Native Public Media, we are mobilizing the philanthropic community to ensure these stations not only survive—but thrive for generations to come.”

A Path for Continued Support

Native Public Media welcomes support for Tribal radio stations from donors across the country. Contributions to the Tribal Media Endowment Fund or the Tribal Station Fund at ACF will help maintain essential services, stabilize operations, and sustain local programming that communities rely on.

Donate to the Tribal Media Endowment Fund or the Tribal Station Fund here: Support Tribal Radio and Television.