Regarding April 7th's New York Times op-ed by Norman Lear, we appreciate his passionate support for the independent film series POV and INDEPENDENT LENS on public media.
PBS and its member stations' commitment to independent film is unrivaled. Last year hundreds of hours of independent productions appeared in the PBS primetime schedule – and this will not change. No other media outlet provides such a wide-ranging and accessible showcase. Our organizations firmly believe that independent film is a vital way to present a diversity of voices and explore complex issues – which are the fundamental principles of public media's mission.
We are working collaboratively to ensure that POV and INDEPENDENT LENS reach the widest possible audience. This includes a primetime placement on local stations' broadcast schedules, as well as distribution on digital platforms – a powerful way to reach younger, engaged viewers – and theatrical releases, such as the premiere of Stanley Nelson’s “The Black Panthers: Vanguard of a Revolution” that PBS is bringing to movie screens this fall.
The media landscape continues to shift, but our dedication to the work of independent film is unwavering.
- Sally Jo Fifer, Executive Producer, INDEPENDENT LENS
- Paula Kerger, President & CEO, PBS
- Simon Kilmurry, Executive Director & Executive Producer, American Documentary/POV
- Neal Shapiro, President & CEO, WNET
