January 31, 2000

Dear Mary Frances Berry,

FAIR would like to voice our support for the striking freelance journalists and contributors at Pacifica Network News.

As a media watch group dedicated to promoting greater diversity in the press, FAIR has been alarmed by the worsening crisis at Pacifica, by the trend toward censorship, retaliatory personnel moves and a lack of accountability. It is sad that the situation at America's oldest progressive radio network has degenerated so far that its reporters feel they must struggle-- and strike-- in order to uphold the tradition of independent, critical journalism that Pacifica was created to champion.

It is clear that Pacifica's future is in jeopardy. As a step toward restoring Pacifica to the unique outlet for alternative journalism it was meant to be, we urge Pacifica management to immediately address the PNN stikers' demands in open, good-faith negotiations.

Sincerely,

Janine Jackson
Program Director, FAIR