Dear John, The Academy Awards have just concluded. As Cultural Editor for People’s World, I am proud to say we reviewed most of the Oscar-winning films and many of the runner-ups on our pages. Yes, we are widely known and respected for our political and labor coverage, with our unique Marxist approach. But ever since our first issue came off the press in 1924, readers also check us out to see what our writers have to say about films, theater, books, art, television, music, not to mention the occasional poem with a socialist slant. Please donate generously to the 2022 Fund Appeal to raise $75,000 by May Day so People's World can continue to offer excellent coverage and commentary on culture. Culture communicates ideas and values touching on every topic of human concern, such as environment, class, work, race, war, gender relationships, disability, gentrification, and so much more. It’s up to critical readers and viewers to determine which artists reaffirm the status quo and which ones have a greater, more comprehensive vision for humanity. Sometimes the messages are mixed, and our reviewers train their sights on what’s positive and unhelpful. Our Culture section often features reviews from volunteer writers across the country and even abroad. They know that the aspects they’re looking for in the arts—honesty, truth, non-commercialism, hope, humanity, class analysis, empowerment—are not necessarily what other publications want to publish. We welcome such contributions as real assets in the urgent struggle for a better world. Our commitment is not new. People’s World has given consistent coverage to culture for almost a century. But our continued survival, and our ability to extend our reach even more widely, would be impossible without your financial support for the publication. The perspective we offer and the range of subject matter we prioritize is not what you will find in the corporate-owned media. People’s World readers have already reached into their pockets and contributed over half of our $75,000 goal by May Day. I know we can close the gap quickly and surpass it. The last several years—Trump + COVID—have been terrifying and trying for billions of people worldwide. Many lost their jobs, and even our People’s World staff were furloughed for weeks, while the ultra-rich scandalously multiplied their fortunes many times over. Yet the paper never missed a day, mirroring back to our readers both the heartbreaks and the stunning victories achieved through mass working people’s actions. Please consider accepting the challenge to be one of 500 readers to donate $100 or more. Over 150 readers have taken the challenge so far. Donations of $10, $25, $50, or however much you can give, are invaluable to keeping the great work at People’s World going. If you can become a monthly contributor, even at the minimum of $5, that helps us budget for the future. Or maybe you would consider a week’s pay. The people’s movement needs a people’s paper. We must survive! Please help us reach out and win more readers! Thank you for your continued commitment. We exist for you and cannot do without you. Eric A. Gordon Cultural Editor  | 
