Hi there,

I'm Shalu Mehta, The Discourse's Island editor.

Today, we're asking 100 readers across Cowichan Valley, Nanaimo and Comox Valley to step up as new monthly supporters by June 22 — enough to keep our Island reporters in the field through the October municipal election.

This spring, Nanaimo reporter Mick Sweetman was in the room for three packed public hearings on the proposed rezoning of land beside the Cable Bay Trail. He captured Snuneymuxw Elders explaining how the rezoning would violate their treaty rights. Council sent it back for more consultation. That's the kind of accountability that doesn't happen unless a real person is in the seats, taking notes, and following up the next day after careful review and fact-checking.

As Nanaimo supporter Carolyn wrote: "Wonderful journalism. Well written. Unbiased. Colourful! Allows information coming from both sides with respect."

A monthly contribution of $10 or $15 covers Mick's time on the council beat, the public-records work, the follow-up calls and original photos — and keeps him ready to follow what could be Nanaimo's first municipal election shaped by formal political slates.

You also help ensure The Discourse’s reporting will never be behind a paywall — your contributions keep this news service available and accessible to everyone.

You'll get some extra emails from us over the next two weeks with reminders and updates about this campaign; it's just that important to sustain our work.

Thanks for being here.

Kindly,