Community Representation Statement (October 2024)
KTOO Public Media based in Juneau, Alaska, is committed to serving the diverse needs of Southeast Alaska through high-quality public media. As a local media organization, we prioritize creating content that reflects the unique cultures, voices, and priorities of the area we serve. Through our programming and community outreach, KTOO ensures that all members of our community are informed, connected, and represented.
Commitment to Community Engagement
KTOO Public Media is dedicated to fostering strong relationships with the community. Our content is designed to address the specific needs and interests of Juneau, with a focus on local news, cultural preservation, and education. By collaborating with local organizations, schools, and residents, we create programming that is both relevant and impactful.
Equal Opportunity and Workforce Diversity
KTOO public Media is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a workplace that reflects the diversity of the community we serve. Our staff and volunteers bring a variety of backgrounds and experiences, enriching our ability to connect with our audience. Additionally, we support initiatives such as periodic internships and volunteer opportunities, to cultivate the next generation of public media professionals.
Community Advisory Board
KTOO Public Media collaborates with a Community Advisory Board that represents the diversity of Juneau. This board provides valuable input on programming, ensuring that our content aligns with the needs and priorities of the community we serve. Their insights help shape our public service strategy and strengthen our connection to our audience.
Regional and Cultural Programming
Our programming reflects the unique identity of Juneau, with a focus on celebrating local culture and providing vital information. Highlights include:
- Lingít Word of the Week: A 60 second Lingít language lesson produced in conjuction with a Lingít language master speaker, the University of Alaska Southeast and Sealaska Heritage Institute.
- Tongass Voices: A series designed to highlight the everyday voices, interests, ideas and perspectives of people living in Southeast Alaska.
- Culture Rich Conversations: A show that aims to bridge the gap in our understanding of race and social justice issues, hosted by the Juneau Black Awareness Association
Recent Initiatives
In 2023 and 2024, KTOO Public Media has undertaken several initiatives to better serve Juneau:
- Lingít language classes have been offered to all KTOO staff
- Formal acknowledge the land that KTOO studios are located as the ancestral homelands of the Áak’w Kwáan
- Allocate funding to staff training and professional development so they are better prepared to engage with and represent our community
Looking Ahead
KTOO Public Media remains committed to adapting and evolving to meet the changing needs of Juneau and Southeast Alaska. We will continue to engage with our listeners, partner with local organizations, and explore innovative ways to serve our community while staying true to our mission of providing informative, educational, and cultural content.
This Community Representation Statement will be reviewed biennially to ensure it reflects the priorities and diversity of the community we serve.