Keep CHSN Free-to-Air for Chicago Sports Fans

Recent signers:
Sean Parkes and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Growing up in Chicago, I've always cherished our local sports teams. Whether it was cheering for the Bulls during their legendary runs, getting excited about another White Sox season, or feeling the adrenaline with every Blackhawks game, these moments have been an integral part of my life. Like many fellow Chicagoans, my access to these games primarily depended on basic over-the-air broadcasting. The Chicago Sports Network (CHSN) was a godsend, allowing me to feel connected to my community and my teams.

However, with the recent decision by Jerry Reinsdorf (and Danny Wirtz) to remove Bulls, White Sox, and Blackhawks games from CHSN's free-to-air broadcasts (62.2 and 62.3) as part of a carriage agreement with Comcast, many fans, including myself, have been left in the dark. Come June 9th, this decision threatens to cut off the primary access point for many sports enthusiasts who can't afford or choose not to pay for cable TV.  (See link: https://www.chsn.com/ota-faq-june-6-25)

This change disproportionately affects fans who rely solely on antenna broadcasts, and millions of low-income households who simply cannot afford another bill in an already expensive city. It spells the loss of communal experiences that come with local sports broadcasts—a rite of passage in our city that should be preserved.

There is still a way forward. By reconsidering this decision, CHSN can maintain its roots in the community and continue to offer free access to local sports. Jerry Reinsdorf, Wirtz, and Comcast must recognize the invaluable role CHSN plays in the cultural fabric of Chicago. Bringing back those crucial game broadcasts to the air can ensure all Chicagoans continue to participate in the fervor of our beloved sports.

Sign this petition to urge Jerry Reinsdorf, Wirtz, Comcast, and CHSN to keep broadcasting games of the Chicago Bulls, White Sox, and Blackhawks over-the-air. Let's make sure that all fans—regardless of their economic status—can continue to cheer on their teams. Let's keep CHSN free and accessible for everyone.

For now, let's boycott the heck out of CHSN on cable.  Reinsdorf, Wirtz, and Comcast don't need our money!!

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Recent signers:
Sean Parkes and 19 others have signed recently.

The Issue

Growing up in Chicago, I've always cherished our local sports teams. Whether it was cheering for the Bulls during their legendary runs, getting excited about another White Sox season, or feeling the adrenaline with every Blackhawks game, these moments have been an integral part of my life. Like many fellow Chicagoans, my access to these games primarily depended on basic over-the-air broadcasting. The Chicago Sports Network (CHSN) was a godsend, allowing me to feel connected to my community and my teams.

However, with the recent decision by Jerry Reinsdorf (and Danny Wirtz) to remove Bulls, White Sox, and Blackhawks games from CHSN's free-to-air broadcasts (62.2 and 62.3) as part of a carriage agreement with Comcast, many fans, including myself, have been left in the dark. Come June 9th, this decision threatens to cut off the primary access point for many sports enthusiasts who can't afford or choose not to pay for cable TV.  (See link: https://www.chsn.com/ota-faq-june-6-25)

This change disproportionately affects fans who rely solely on antenna broadcasts, and millions of low-income households who simply cannot afford another bill in an already expensive city. It spells the loss of communal experiences that come with local sports broadcasts—a rite of passage in our city that should be preserved.

There is still a way forward. By reconsidering this decision, CHSN can maintain its roots in the community and continue to offer free access to local sports. Jerry Reinsdorf, Wirtz, and Comcast must recognize the invaluable role CHSN plays in the cultural fabric of Chicago. Bringing back those crucial game broadcasts to the air can ensure all Chicagoans continue to participate in the fervor of our beloved sports.

Sign this petition to urge Jerry Reinsdorf, Wirtz, Comcast, and CHSN to keep broadcasting games of the Chicago Bulls, White Sox, and Blackhawks over-the-air. Let's make sure that all fans—regardless of their economic status—can continue to cheer on their teams. Let's keep CHSN free and accessible for everyone.

For now, let's boycott the heck out of CHSN on cable.  Reinsdorf, Wirtz, and Comcast don't need our money!!

The Decision Makers

Danny Wirtz
Danny Wirtz

Supporter Voices

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Petition created on June 6, 2025