Hi there,

Last month, we found out that two of The Discourse’s deep dive stories were nominated for a prestigious journalism award in the community category.

• Rowan Flood’s deep dive on the movement to “open the gates” of Vancouver Island's forestry company-owned backcountry roads.

• Julie Chadwick’s story about the Regional District of Nanaimo’s controversial bylaw complaints against people living in tiny homes and RVs. 

With the ongoing unpredictability of funding for local news, like government grants, we rely on readers who believe in our new kind of local journalism to step up. 

So today, I’m asking you to become one of our community news champions.

If you appreciate this journalism and believe that local news supports healthy local communities, will you consider signing up to become a monthly supporter for whatever amount you can afford?

Here are just a few statements of support we’ve received from recent financial backers of The Discourse’s journalism

“Finally - investigative journalism.” — Dennis

“Great in-depth reporting on local issues.” — Juliette

We believe local news is the most impactful form of journalism, as the ripples can be seen immediately. The Discourse’s reporters are deeply connected to Nanaimo. Their stories uplift community initiatives and hold local institutions to account. 

• Our investigation into the Nanaimo regional district influenced a reversal in its proposed tiny home and RV policy shortly after the story dropped.

• Three months after the backcountry gates story was published, the forestry company released a survey to gather public input on responsible recreation, stating it would use the results to guide the company’s “commitment to responsible forest stewardship.” 

• Following Mick's reporting on the Nanaimo city council’s recording ban, we've seen a difference in how council is reporting.

Based on your emails, letters and social media shares, it’s stories like these that matter most to you. That’s why we are reaching out to readers who have never contributed to become monthly supporters.

Every dollar you send us each month goes toward paying your local reporters and freelancers to tell stories rooted in principles of deep listening, getting it right, breaking down silos and reporting with respect.

Thanks for being here.

Kindly,