FCC launches Pledge America Campaign urging broadcasters to air patriotic content for nation's 250th

The Federal Communications Commission launched Friday a voluntary "Pledge America Campaign" as the United States gears up for its 250th birthday celebration, for which broadcasters would air “patriotic, pro-America content." 

The Trump administration has launched a year-long effort to commemorate the nation's semiquincentennial anniversary, which includes the Great American Farmer's Market, hosted by the Department of Agriculture, in August.

“As America’s 250th anniversary approaches, it is important to reflect on the ideals and events that have defined our past while keeping an eye towards our country’s bright future,” FCC Chair Brendan Carr said in a statement. “I am calling on broadcasters to pledge to provide programming that promotes civic education, national pride, and our shared history.”

Carr said some ways broadcasters can participate in the initiative is by running public service announcements, short segments or specials that promote civic education, inspiring local stories, and American history.

Other suggestions include airing segments during regular news programming that highlight local and historic sites such as National Park Service sites, starting the first news program of the day with the Pledge of Allegiance or national anthem, or playing music by great American composers, including Aaron Copland, Duke Ellington, or George Gershwin. 

“I believe in the greatness of our country," Carr said. "I look forward to broadcasters showcasing its inspiring history by taking the Pledge and fulfilling their public interest mandate to serve the needs and interests of their local communities as America’s 250th birthday celebration marches on.”