WBEZ, rejecting politicking

WBEZ 91.5-FM in Chicago is sending letters to members concerning the Congressional fight over CPB funding, but isn't using its airwaves or website to urge listeners to take action. Torey Malatia, g.m., explains to the Chicago Reader, "It is inappropriate for a public service institution committed to independent, fair journalistic practices to use its public service platforms to urge specific legislative action, even if — especially if — that action results in institutional financial benefit. Journalists either report content to the public in a way that rejects politicking or not. You either stick to principles or you really don't have any."