Help SN&R, donate to our Legal Defense Fund

As a journalist, I'm typically loathe to cross the line between editorial and advertising. Reporters do the reporting, analyzing and writing that fills pages. Sales people sell ads that keep those pages in print.

As such, it feels pretty weird to talk money, but strange times call for strange measures.

In June, Sacramento Mayor Kevin Johnson sued SN&R because he wanted to stop the paper from gaining access to his emails—emails he claimed were protected by attorney-client privilege.

SN&R disagrees. The mayor used these emails to involve city staff in supporting efforts to dismantle the National Conference of Black Mayors. In other words, he used City Hall resources in private matters that have nothing to do with Sacramento.

Those conversations should be public record and SN&R is fighting for access. So far, we're the only local media outlet to challenge him.

Lawsuits aren't cheap, of course, and our lawyer doesn't work pro bono—unlike K.J.'s. So far, we've racked up a hefty legal bill and expect it to keep growing, likely in excess of $30,000.

This is where you come in. SN&R has launched a GoFundMe campaign aimed at offsetting our legal costs. We hope you'll consider donating—and spreading the word.

Donors of $100 or more are invited to SN&R's Legal Defense Fundraiser, which is scheduled to take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, September 16. For more details and to donate visit www.gofundme.com/SNRlegalhelp.

It feels strange asking for help. But it also feels very, very necessary.