Filmmaker Ken Burns passionately defends PBS as Congress considers cutting federal funding, highlighting its crucial role in American history and public media.
Ken Burns Defends PBS Amid Federal Funding Cuts
As Congress considers legislation that would strip federal funding from public media, filmmaker Ken Burns is speaking out on the prospect, calling it “foolhardy.” In an interview with CBS News’ John Dickerson, he stated, “I couldn’t do any of the films I’ve done without them being on PBS.”
Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence
Burns has become a prominent voice defending public media and will play a major role in discussing the American Revolution as the U.S. prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence next year. PBS has slated Burns’ six-part The American Revolution for this November, produced and directed alongside Sarah Botstein and David Schmidt, with a companion book by Geoffrey Ward.
A Comprehensive Perspective on American History
With President Donald Trump directing federal agencies to focus on the anniversary and providing funding through his Big, Beautiful Bill, Burns offers a more nuanced view of American history. In his interview, he emphasized the importance of presenting history beyond mere slogans.
Addressing Historical Imbalance
When asked about Trump’s executive action suggesting an imbalance in historical narratives, Burns responded, “I don’t see the imbalance. We need to celebrate the greatness of the American people through complex stories. A good story is a good story.” He highlighted the need to understand the internal struggles of figures like Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln, and the significance of Rosa Parks‘ actions.
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Significance of the Declaration of Independence
Burns referenced scholar Maggie Blackhawk, who noted that the Declaration holds deep significance for marginalized groups. While the original text did not include women, the poor, or people of color, its inspirational words suggest a broader, more inclusive American polity.
The Threat to PBS Funding
Recently, the House of Representatives voted to strip the Corporation for Public Broadcasting of approximately $1.1 billion in federal funding. Burns expressed concern, stating, “It is the Declaration of Independence applied to the communications world. PBS serves rural areas where it may be the only signal available, providing essential educational and emergency information.”
A Call for Continued Support
Burns has testified multiple times before Congress on the necessity of PBS funding, emphasizing that he could not produce his films without PBS’s support. He noted that while he could secure funding from streaming services, they would not allow the time needed to develop quality content.
