Prime Minister Trudeau, Esteemed Members of Parliament and Provincial Legislators, 

Canadian Journalism is being killed!

We write to you today as concerned citizens and news media providers, grappling with the devastating impact of Bill C-18 on the traditional media landscape in Canada. While the intentions behind this legislation were noble, the unintended consequences are evident. The recent closure of The Glengarry News (Alexandria, Ontario), a local institution that has faithfully served its community for 131 years, and the bankruptcy of Metroland and Métro Média underscores the urgency of addressing the unintended repercussions of this legislation. This is particularly evident in the struggles faced by other community media outlets like The Seeker in Cornwall, Ontario, which are desperately trying to remain afloat in these turbulent waters.

The Seeker, and many outlets like it, publishes both online content that is updated many times a day and physical paper content that might be published less frequently. We all advertise our online content for free through posts on platforms like Facebook and Instagram and we are indexed on Google.

As a result of the sudden news block, local community media outlets have seen their web traffic drastically cut. Overnight, advertisers have loosened their ties with them as their own Facebook business pages and personal profiles get more views, and their own have since been shut down.   If the goal was to put some advertising money back in the pockets of traditional media who have lost so much to internet giants, this law has completely backfired and for many, if not most, will simply hammer the last nail in the coffin. It is a devastating reality for smaller news outlets who serve the news needs of their communities in a way that large media outlets just cannot.

The Glengarry News was not just ink on paper; it was the lifeblood of a community delivering crucial information to its heart.  It was a trusted source of information, a forum for local voices, and a bridge connecting neighbors. Its closure is not a mere business decision; it is the loss of a cherished companion that has guided generations through life's ups and downs. The pain is palpable, and the void it leaves behind is irreplaceable.

All communities, much like Glengarry, relies on local small media outlets to promote local stories, celebrate achievements, and provide a platform for citizens to voice their concerns.

Journalists, publishers, contributors have put blood, sweat, and tears into building what is today an essential part of our communities. The threat of losing our local news media outlets is a heartbreaking and very real prospect that fills our residents with anxiety and sorrow. 

In conclusion, we implore you to take immediate action to address the unintended consequences of Bill C-18 and protect the essential role of traditional community media in our democracy.

We trust that you will consider this appeal seriously.

Thank you for your time and dedication to the well-being of our nation. We eagerly await your response and remain hopeful that together, we can find a solution that upholds the principles of free press and preserves the rich tapestry of Canadian journalism.