Dear Common Dreams Readers:
A free and independent press is essential to the health of a functioning democracy. We created our media model over twenty-two years ago: a nonprofit newsroom, funded by thousands of small contributors guaranteeing us the independence to speak truth to power. With donations averaging $31 and a tight budget, we depend on our readers to keep us alive and growing. We ask everyone who believes in the vital importance of independent, progressive media to help us—no amount is too large or too small—continue our coverage of these pivotal—and perilous—times. Independent journalism and democracy itself have never been more fragile, more at risk than now. Thank you. -- Craig Brown, Co-founder