Note From MBN Board Chair Amb. Ryan Crocker

MBN Team,

I want to thank you for your heroic efforts during increasingly trying times. It is vital that we keep operations going so that we continue to fight the unlawful withholding of MBN’s congressionally appropriated funds. Without your continued work in this sharply reduced form MBN would be finished all together. We still have a mission. And an obligation to our audience.

The lawsuit is the only chance we have to obtain funding to recreate MBN, The form of the next MBN will be different, to be sure. But when funding comes back, it’s our fervent hope that some colleagues will be able to return. Equally important: It remains our intention to pay annual leave and end of service for MBN employees we were compelled to terminate earlier this month.

I want to thank Jeff and his senior team for working round the clock during this period. It’s not just their tireless efforts on behalf of MBN. They’ve faced countless choices between equally unfavorable options. Decisions have been wise and responsible. MBN’s course has the full backing of the board.

I realize it’s been bruising for you. I can only imagine the deep pain for those let go. It is unforgivable — unprofessional, unethical, and immoral —that USAGM starves us of Congressionally approved funds. We are doing everything possible to show the courts that irreparable has been done. I’m grateful to Anne Noble and outside pro bono counsel. We have one of the finest legal teams in the country advancing your case.

As an ambassador in a number of unstable and war-torn countries, I’ve had my share of epic battles. This fight is exceptionally difficult. We’re all fighting hard. I’m fully on your side.

With deepest appreciation,

Ambassador Ryan Crocker

MBN Board Chair