WPFW-FM 89.3

A community radio station operating at 89.3 FM in the Washington metropolitan area, the station is owned by the Pacifica Foundation and carries the slogan "Jazz and Justice." It is the fifth station in the Pacifica network and was established with a distinct mission: to serve as a Black-staffed, Black-formatted community outlet for the predominantly African-American population of Washington, D.C. Studios are located on K Street NW. The station launched on February 28, 1977, opening with Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's "Take the 'A' Train." From its beginning, the station championed progressive voices and community-oriented programming, drawing scrutiny from conservative groups who challenged its license renewal in 1981 by alleging violations of the Fairness Doctrine. The Federal Communications Commission rejected those challenges and renewed the license in 1983. Over the decades, the station operated from studios in D.C.'s Chinatown neighborhood until 1996, then from Adams Morgan until a building demolition forced a move in 2013. After a controversial proposal to relocate to Silver Spring, Maryland, the station settled at its current K Street location. Programming includes a substantial amount of locally produced content dedicated to jazz, blues, classic soul, and international music, alongside syndicated Pacifica programs including Democracy Now! and other public affairs broadcasts. Governance includes a Local Station Board that holds public meetings.