A Milestone for Independent Journalism: Reflecting on 28 Years of Unparalleled Reporting
For nearly three decades, Democracy Now! has carved out a unique space in the media landscape, offering a platform for stories, voices, and perspectives largely absent from mainstream outlets. Since its inception in 1996, our commitment to fearless and unflinching journalism has illuminated the complexities of war, environmental catastrophes, and the political arena. In an age dominated by corporate media, our mission to deliver rigorous, in-depth reporting without the influence of advertising, corporate sponsorship, or government funding is more essential than ever. As we celebrate our 28th anniversary, we find ourselves at a critical juncture, appealing to our valued community for support. A matching donation opportunity amplifies the impact of your contribution today, ensuring the continuity and expansion of our indispensable work.
Amplifying Unheard Narratives
Central to our ethos is the belief that a well-informed public is foundational to a functioning democracy. Our dedication to highlighting underreported stories foster a more nuanced understanding of global events, challenging narratives shaped by corporate interests. Every donation, no matter the size, is a testament to the community’s trust in our integrity and the quality of our journalism.
The Urgency of Independent Funding
Operating devoid of external financial pressures enables us to pursue stories based solely on their societal importance. This independence is sustained by the generosity of our audience—people who value journalism as a public service. Today, we reach out to ask for your contribution, a gesture that ensures our continued dedication to truth-telling and accountability.
Chicago Confronts Big Oil: A Legal Battle for Climate Accountability
In an unprecedented move, the City of Chicago has initiated legal action against six leading oil and gas corporations, along with a pivotal industry group, for orchestrating a systematic campaign to mislead the public about climate change and their significant role in this unfolding crisis. Progressive Mayor Brandon Johnson spearheaded this suit, targeting entities including ExxonMobil, Chevron, BP, Shell, ConocoPhillips, Phillips 66, and the American Petroleum Institute. This litigation highlights the severe climatic disturbances Chicago faces, such as escalated storm frequency, flooding, droughts, and erosion of its shoreline. Chicago’s legal challenge aligns it with eight other states, the District of Columbia, and various U.S. municipalities in a collective assertion of corporate responsibility for climate devastation.
Charting the Impacts: Chicago’s Climate Struggle
The lawsuit meticulously documents the multifaceted climate challenges confronting Chicago, demonstrating how intensified natural events directly result from corporate negligence. This move seeks not only to hold these conglomerates accountable but also to spotlight the dire environmental realities facing urban centers across the globe.
Building a Coalition: The Growing Movement for Climate Justice
Chicago’s legal endeavor is part of a burgeoning movement among regions and municipalities to demand accountability from fossil fuel-giants for their environmental transgressions. By joining this collective legal framework, Chicago stands in solidarity with other affected areas, reinforcing the principle that substantial, profit-driven contributors to the climate crisis must bear responsibility for its mitigation and the ensuing societal costs.
In an era where the essence of journalism is under constant scrutiny, the support of our audience—through engagement and financial contributions—is the cornerstone of Democracy Now!’s resilience and impact. As we navigate through tumultuous times, your participation is instrumental in preserving the integrity and vigor of independent journalism. Together, we can continue to shed light on critical issues, advocate for justice, and amplify voices that would otherwise remain unheard.
