The new channel, FNX, will begin airing daily from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. starting March 1 on RSU TV’s channel 35.2, which can be found on Channel 87 on Cox Cable and Channel 36 on Dish and Direct TV.
RSU Public TV will be the 21st affiliate of the network, which is a partnership between KVCR Public Television in San Bernardino, California, and the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Major support for FNX on RSU Public TV is being provided by the Cherokee Nation.
FNX illustrates the healthy, positive, and real lives of Native American and Indigenous peoples. Programs include drama, comedy, lifestyle, sports, music, art, dance, politics, news, public affairs, cooking, health, animation, fitness, talk shows, nature, gardening and children’s programming. Rounding out this non-commercial channel are TV series, feature films, documentaries, short films and public service announcements. Each program reflects the voice of Native American and Indigenous people from around the globe.
Jennifer Sterling, program and membership manager for RSU TV, said the new partnership with FNX reflects the station’s focus on serving the community. “We strive to provide quality programming that spotlights the rich and varied aspects of Native American culture. The acquisition of FNX programming is another step forward in honoring that commitment,” she said.
Alfredo Cruz, general manager of KVCR and FNX said, “History is being made. FNX is the vehicle we have been waiting for to be able to tell the stories, share perspectives and celebrate the rich and diverse traditions of our Native and Indigenous cultures. This is a rare moment in time, an important opening to make a significant change in our society.”
Joining the network also will provide an outlet for area tribes to provide content to a national audience. Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Bill John Baker said that aspect of the network is one of the reasons the Cherokee Nation stepped up to support FNX.
“The story of the Cherokee Nation is a very important one to tell. Most non-Natives have heard of the Trail of Tears, but we are so much more than that,” he said. “Yes, we’ve faced terrible adversities, but we’ve also overcome those adversities and thrived. We’re a modern tribe that values our history and our heritage, but also preserves and advances our language and culture. The stories of our people, our customs and our successes is one that needs to be told, both to inspire our own people and educate those who aren’t Native. I’m so grateful that FNX is a platform for us to do that.”
Royal Aills, general manager of RSU TV, noted that, “RSU TV serves more than 12 different tribes in our viewing area. Not only will FNX bring quality programs to our audience, but it will also allow us to share content from local producers with the FNX Network so the world will learn about our local tribes. RSU TV and Rogers State University is proud to be a part of the network and what it will mean for so many of our viewers.”
For more information, visit www.rsu.tv.