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Alameda Today
By the People, for the People
Celebrate 77 Years of 94.1 KPFA
Alameda's historic listener-supported radio station marks milestone with special event.
Apr. 15, 2026 at 2:43pm
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A vibrant celebration of the 77-year legacy of KPFA, the pioneering listener-supported radio station that has championed free speech and community media.Alameda TodayKPFA, America's first listener-supported radio station, is celebrating its 77th anniversary with a special event on April 18th at the Alameda Theatre & Cineplex. The event will feature a screening of the 2000 documentary film 'KPFA on the Air' followed by a panel discussion with KPFA staffers. An after-party at the California Historical Radio Society will follow, featuring KPFA DJs.
Why it matters
KPFA has a storied history as a pioneer of listener-supported radio and free speech. The station has weathered landmark legal battles over censorship and continues to provide unique, community-focused programming to the Bay Area. This anniversary celebration honors KPFA's legacy and the enduring importance of independent, non-commercial media.
The details
The 77th anniversary celebration of KPFA will kick off at 2 p.m. on April 18th at the Alameda Theatre & Cineplex. The event will begin with a screening of the 2000 documentary film 'KPFA on the Air,' which chronicles the station's history. This will be followed by a panel discussion with KPFA staffers, hosted by Vylma V of KPFA Women's Magazine. After the discussion, attendees are invited to an exclusive after-party at the California Historical Radio Society from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m., featuring KPFA DJs Mike Biggz and Davey D.
- KPFA was founded in 1949 as America's first listener-supported radio station.
- In 1973, KPFA's sister station WBAI aired an uncensored version of George Carlin's 'Filthy Words' routine, leading to the landmark FCC v. Pacifica Foundation Supreme Court case in 1978.
- KPFA is celebrating its 77th anniversary on April 18, 2026.
The players
Pacifica Foundation
The nonprofit organization that founded KPFA and several other listener-supported radio stations, including WBAI in New York City.
E. John Lewis and Lewis Hill
The pacifists and conscientious objectors who founded the Pacifica Foundation in 1946 after World War II.
Vylma V
The host of KPFA Women's Magazine, who will moderate the panel discussion at the anniversary event.
Mike Biggz and Davey D
KPFA DJs who will perform at the after-party event.
What they’re saying
“At 94.1 on the FM dial, you'll find one of America's most historic broadcasting outlets: KPFA.”
— Scott Piehler, Author
What’s next
The California Historical Radio Society and Alameda Theatre & Cineplex will continue to host events and discussions celebrating KPFA's history and legacy in the coming years.
The takeaway
KPFA's 77-year history as a listener-supported, community-focused radio station is a testament to the enduring importance of independent media and free speech. This anniversary celebration honors the station's pioneering role and inspires continued support for its mission.
