Iconic American singer, poet, and activist Patti Smith has voiced her support for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL), highlighting the importance of independent journalism and addressing the threats to the media outlet’s funding from the current U.S. administration.
A Dedication in Prague
During a concert held on July 19 in Prague, where RFE/RL’s headquarters are located, the 78-year-old artist dedicated her song “People Have the Power” to “Steve and everyone at Radio Free Europe,” referring to RFE/RL President Stephen Capus.
Smith, an influential figure in New York’s punk rock scene of the mid-1970s, praised the work of RFE/RL and “many important public institutions,” emphasizing their role in disseminating “important information to people in rural communities around the world.” She added that these institutions are “losing funds from my country’s current administration.”
“We must continue to fight and help each other,” she urged.
Uncertain Future for US-Funded Broadcasters
Headquartered in the Czech Republic’s capital since 1995, RFE/RL broadcasts independent news in 27 languages to countries where press freedom is restricted or not fully consolidated. Smith’s support comes at a time when the future of U.S.-funded international broadcasters, including RFE/RL, is uncertain due to proposed budget cuts and shifting political priorities in Washington.
RFE/RL, along with other government-funded broadcasters like Voice of America, Radio Free Asia, the Office of Cuba Broadcasting (Radio Martí), the Middle East Broadcasting Networks (MBN), and the Open Technology Fund, face difficulties since U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order impacting the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM).
USAGM is an independent government agency that oversees several U.S.-funded broadcasters, which collectively deliver news and information in nearly 50 languages to approximately 361 million people weekly. The threat to the broadcaster’s funding has spurred a wave of global support from media advocacy organizations, analysts, democracy advocates, and audiences in the 23 countries where RFE/RL broadcasts.
Artists Rally for Press Freedom
Smith is not the first artist to speak out in defense of RFE/RL. Earlier this year, the band R.E.M. re-released their song “Radio Free Europe” to mark World Press Freedom Day and highlight the organization’s work in supporting independent and truthful journalism in places where it is most threatened.
“Whether it’s music or a free press – censorship everywhere is a threat to the truth,” declared R.E.M. lead singer Michael Stipe, adding that the band was “sending a salute to the brave journalists at Radio Free Europe.”
Another R.E.M. member, Mike Mills, also offered his support for RFE/RL. “RFE/RL journalists have angered dictators for 75 years. You know you’re doing a good job when you make the right enemies,” he said.
