As February begins, Black Power 96 FM remains committed to empowering the African community in the St. Petersburg/Tampa Bay area and beyond. This month brings exciting events and programming while also highlighting the need for continued support to sustain the station’s critical work.
The February Fund Drive is underway, calling on listeners to help raise funds to keep Black Power 96 FM on the air. A highlight of the drive will be the Gospel Benefit Concert: For the Love of Jesus on Saturday, Feb. 15 at Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church, located at 2580 12th Ave S in St. Petersburg.
Doors open at 4:00 p.m., and the show begins at 5:00 p.m., featuring performances by Natasha Cash, Reverend Fleming Tarver, and the Original Florida Spiritualaires. Tickets are available at BlackPower96.org/Gospel or by visiting the station.
A Look at 2024 Achievements
This past year was a banner year for Black Power 96 FM. Highlights include:
- New Radio Shows: The addition of “Hair Care for Hair Loss Challenges and Beauty Tips” with Simone Durant and “Youth Voices,” among others, broadened our programming to reflect the needs and interests of our community and listeners.
- New Station Volunteers: We welcomed a dynamic group of new volunteers who are passionate about contributing to our mission, strengthening our team, and helping us grow.
- African Community Impact: From hurricane coverage to educational programming, we’ve continued to be a vital source of information and connection for the St. Pete/Tampa Bay African community and beyond.
The HOU Lawsuit Update
The station is also proud of its ongoing fight against colonial and predatory practices that threaten the freedom of the African community. The Hands Off Uhuru legal battle continues as an essential part of this effort.
Why We Need Your Support
Support for Black Power 96 FM is more important than ever. Funds raised during the February Fund Drive will be used for Emergency Alert System (EAS) updates to meet FCC requirements, maintenance and repairs to ensure high-quality broadcasts, and covering operational costs to keep the station live and thriving for you.
Additionally, a new commercial station claiming to serve the people has started encroaching on Black Power 96’s audience. Unlike Black Power 96 FM, this station offers no platform for community voices or grassroots connections.
Black Power 96 FM’s listeners have expressed their appreciation for the station’s unwavering dedication. During a recent station webinar, one listener noted, “BP96 isn’t just a station—it’s a lifeline. They were there for us during the hurricanes, and they’re here every day, giving us news, music, and a voice.”
Another BP96 supporter shared, “This station is more than entertainment; it’s empowerment. They’re fighting for us when no one else will.”
The stations’ efforts are critical as the station faces ongoing challenges, including gentrification and external competition.
Looking Ahead to 2025
Black Power 96 FM aims to expand its programming to address health, wealth, and empowerment for the African community, launch media training workshops for youth and adults, host more community events, and continue advocacy efforts against colonialism. The station remains steadfast in its mission to amplify African voices and foster community empowerment.
As we celebrate our achievements and look forward to the future, we need your help. Support Black Power 96 FM by donating, attending events, and spreading the word. Together, we can ensure that this vital community resource not only survives but thrives. And as you’ll hear the station manager, the world’s best blind DJ, Eddie Maultsby say, “We’re not just explaining the world, but changing it!”Visit BlackPower96.org for more information, and let’s make 2025 a year of growth, strength, and unity!
