Public Network Receives Millions for Global Reach

A public television network dedicated to Native American and world indigenous content received a $6 million gift in the effort to launch the network globally. First Nations Experience (FNX) was presented with the $6 million gift from founding partner San Manuel Band of Mission Indians on Jan. 26 in a public gifting ceremony. This funding is the second gift of its kind from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians to the public network. "Gifts of this magnitude are extremely rare in public media," said FNX General Manager Alfredo Cruz. "The fact that San Manuel is renewing their commitment with this second gift is a massive vote of confidence in the exciting and innovative work FNX is doing in public television." Presenting stories and content unique to Native American and world indigenous peoples, FNX was created locally in San Bernardino by founding partners San Manuel Band of Mission Indians and PBS/KVCR in 2011. It is currently available in 12 states and is also available via satellite throughout the country over the Public Television Interconnect System. Now, the recent donation will help the network expand, Cruz added. “Since the idea for FNX was first broached in our early discussions, San Manuel has viewed the Native television channel as a key media platform for disseminating factual information about and for tribal nations and Indigenous peoples around the world,” said San Manuel Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena. “We are pleased with the progress that FNX has made during the initial development period and are excited about the opportunities the channel presents for Native storytellers, filmmakers, actors, musicians, and artisans as well as other professions in television.” Content includes feature and short films, documentaries, series, health, cooking and gardening, sports, cultural, news, nature, animation and children's programming tailored to the experiences of Native American and Indigenous people worldwide.