Code Switch How Trump's cuts to public media threaten the first Native American station
Nov 15, 2025
Kristin Hall, the general manager of KYUK in Bethel, Alaska, oversees an Indigenous-led station facing severe funding cuts. Joining her is Esther Green, a Yupik elder and co-host of the spiritual wellness show Ikayutet. They discuss how KYUK lost 70% of its budget, the station's critical role as the only local news source for 56 villages, and their on-the-ground reporting during recent disasters. Esther shares insights on community healing through Ikayutet, while Kristin highlights the bid for new funding amidst staff reductions.
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Cuts Hit Community Stations Hard
- Federal cuts to public radio disproportionately harm Black and Indigenous-led community stations.
- KYUK lost about 70% of its budget and serves a region with no other local news outlet.
Reporting Through A Natural Disaster
- After the funding loss, Typhoon Halong displaced 1,400 people across the YK Delta and damaged infrastructure.
- KYUK continued reporting on the ground during the disaster, documenting flooding and rescues.
Airwaves As Community Lifeline
- KYUK keeps remote communities connected across a region the size of South Dakota.
- Call-in shows, Yupik programming, and bilingual content sustain communication when travel is unsafe.