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FCC Urges Broadcasters for Patriotic Content Ahead of 250th Anniversary

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FCC Calls for More "Patriotic, Pro-America" Content Ahead of 250th Anniversary

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has called on broadcasters to air more "patriotic, pro-America" content in anticipation of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

FCC Launches "Pledge America" Campaign

FCC Chairman Brendan Carr announced the "Pledge America Campaign," linking it to the Salute to America 250 Task Force, established by President Trump to manage the federal 250th anniversary celebrations. Carr stated that broadcasters should use their national reach to inform and entertain audiences by increasing programming that "celebrates the American journey and inspires its citizens."

Carr highlighted a decline in civics education and suggested "Schoolhouse Rock!" as an example of desirable programming. "Schoolhouse Rock!" was an ABC series created for the country's 200th anniversary.

Programming Suggestions and Voluntary Engagement

Specific suggestions from Carr for broadcasters include:

  • Starting each day with the "Star Spangled Banner" or the Pledge of Allegiance.
  • Introducing segments that highlight "local sites of significance" to national and regional history, such as National Park Service locations.
  • Airing works by canonical U.S. composers, including John Philip Sousa, George Gershwin, Duke Ellington, and Aaron Copland.

The FCC statement clarified that radio and TV organizations are not obligated to participate, noting that "Broadcasters can voluntarily choose to indicate their commitment to the Pledge America Campaign."

Broadcasters Already Engaged

Several media organizations were already developing patriotic, history-focused projects prior to the FCC's announcement:

  • Ken Burns: Released "The American Revolution" documentary series on PBS in November.
  • Nexstar Media: Announced "My American Story," a year-long, cross-platform campaign celebrating diverse American voices and values.
  • NPR: Launched the "America in Pursuit" series last month, exploring the meaning of the Declaration of Independence's promises.
  • Sinclair Inc.: Launched "Amazing America 250: From Neighborhood to Nation" in October, a multi-platform celebration of American history, culture, innovation, and community spirit.

Historical Precedent

Archival research by NPR indicates that the FCC did not issue a similar call for patriotic broadcasting in the lead-up to the 1976 bicentennial.