Tonight’s conversation is about preserving, protecting, and elevating the future of Black stories. At a time when historical Black facts are being erased and rewritten, Black Public Media has been a vital lifeline for Black storytellers. But that lifeline is now in jeopardy, with nearly $2 million cut from its budget.

So what do these cuts mean for the organization? How does Black Public Media plan to move forward? And what is the call to action for our community at large? We’re diving into these urgent questions with tonight’s guests:

Leslie Fields-Cruz – Executive Director, Black Public Media
Byron Hurt – Award-winning Filmmaker

For more than 45 years, Black Public Media (BPM) has supported visionary content creators and shared stories about the global Black experience to inspire a more equitable and inclusive future. BPM-supported programs have earned five Emmys, 10 Peabodys, five Anthem Awards, 14 Emmy nominations, and an Oscar nomination. The organization continues to address historical, contemporary, and systemic challenges that hinder the development and distribution of Black stories.

We are just about out of time, but here’s how you can help: Support BPM’s efforts and give to the Black Stories Production Fund.