View this email in your browser

KEEP THE READER FREE

"The Reader can't be bought!"

There was a time when staff wanted that to be a tongue-in-cheek tagline for the Reader. It was a wink to everyone who picked up a copy that the paper was free, and big corporations weren't a part of it. But shortly after the tagline was introduced, the Reader was purchased by -- you guessed it -- a big corporation.

That purchase set off a chain of ownership transfers that almost killed the Reader more than once. But now, 51 years after its launch, it's finally true:

The Reader can't be bought, because the Reader is now a nonprofit.

We fought for our independence and won, and now the Reader is truly free. If I had to suggest a new tag line, it would be: Free forever -- and free for everyone.

This newfound freedom is amazing, but it also means we no longer have a safety net. Instead, we're relying on the support of the incredible community of readers that has had our back at every turn.

That's why I'm asking: Will you sign up to become a member right now?

All members receive a special Reader lapel pin, early access to new issues, free or discounted entry to Reader-sponsored events, as well as extras and surprises. You can choose how much you pay, starting at $5 a month. And for a limited time, we're offering annual memberships at a 20% discount.

When you become a member, you'll be ensuring that the Reader remains truly free and accessible to everyone. You'll never have to worry about the Reader being bought out by a hedge fund, a big corporation, or a billionaire.

I was a co-organizer of the largest women's march in Chicago's history, in 2017. I feel the heartbeat of this city every day -- whether I'm among 250,000 people protesting for our rights, or enjoying a drink at Reader Best of Chicago winner Nobody's Darling bar in Andersonville. The Reader knows this heartbeat so well -- that's why it was such an honor to join this team one year ago.

This is a brand-new chapter in Reader history, and we're excited for you to help write it.

Become a member today -- and keep the Reader free forever.

Thank you so much,

Ann Scholhamer
Vice President of Operations

BECOME A MONTHLY MEMBER
ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP (SAVE 20%)

Copyright (C) 2022 Chicago Reader. All rights reserved.

You were subscribed to the receive emails from Chicago Reader

Chicago Reader
2930 S. Michigan Ave.
Suite 102
Chicago, IL 60616

Add us to your address book

Update Preferences | Unsubscribe