Journalism is in trouble.

We know that, and if you’re reading this, you probably do too. In fact, you’re probably sick of hearing it. Fake news proliferates our online platforms, and young people are particularly susceptible. A crisis of trust has created a gulf between citizens and the media. This is dangerous.

But it doesn’t have to be this way.

We believe that student media is indispensable in rebuilding trust in news culture. Our site reaches thousands of users a day, our prints are distributed across campus. We stand to be a bastion of the York student community. We believe that mobilising the voices of young people and enabling them to hold their University to account creates a citizens who not only consume the news, but have the power to make it. Our presence on campus highlights the importance of well-researched, balanced journalism to young people, something they will carry with them long after their journey at York. Every day we receive information and stories from students, and it is a privilege to have the trust of the student community, we want to continue to do this, and that’s why we are asking for your donations.

Our journalists have gone on to work for outlets across the globe; from the Guardian, to The Times, The New Yorker and many more. We want to keep producing these high quality journalists, especially supporting those from underrepresented backgrounds by breaking down barriers, and ensuring that the media stratosphere remains rich with diverse experiences.

We are a society that sows the seeds of success for many, not only in their careers, but in their personal lives. Many students over the last 60 years have forged bonds and found friends for life in the paper, and we hope this culture can continue for many more years.

We are not just a paper that writes stories about students, we are a paper that exists for students. Your support can ensure we remain a powerful force on campus, and contribute to the transformation of the media crisis we find ourselves in.