About the Station

Hartford Public Access Television provides the city of Hartford’s community, government and educational institutions free and unrestricted access to the cable television system. We define Community as residents, businesses, non-profit organizations, institutions and neighborhoods.

Our professional staff is available to assist individuals and groups in achieving their training and /or production goals. Our training program and associated practical experience has provided participants with the skills to become television professionals.

Mission Statement

Hartford Public Access Television (HPATV) is Hartford’s innovative multi-media center that brings the community together to create and share diverse content that promotes freedom of speech, cultural expression, and civic participation.

HPATV was incorporated in January of 1976 by a coalition of individuals, art organizations, social service agencies, and the City of Hartford. The concept of a public access television facility grew out of seven years of planning which preceded its official opening in June of 1982.

The establishment of Hartford Public Access Television was in response to the need for Hartford residents and non-profit organizations to engage in community dialogue and introspection not normally available from other media sources, and the opportunity to establish an alternative for community expression and communication.

Guiding Principles

  • Support freedom of speech
  • Promote Cultural and artistic expression
  • Foster democratic discourse
  • Provide uncensored coverage of government proceedings

Role in the Hartford Community

  • Primary source of information useful to residents
  • Public forum for individuals to openly express their perspectives and opinions
  • Mechanism to facilitate activism
  • Booster for Hartford as a good place to live, work, and visit
Disclaimer: ALTHOUGH FREEDOM OF SPEECH IS EXTREMELY IMPORTANT TO HPATV, THE STATION RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REFUSE TO AIR MATERIAL WHICH RAISES SERIOUS RISKS OF LEGAL LIABILITY, SUCH AS LIBEL, SLANDER, INVASION OF PRIVACY, COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT, PORNOGRAPHY, OBSCENITY, ETC.