We are the Times Union. We bring you all the news, we make the ads, we take the photos. We’re the ones who show up for emergency meetings scheduled midday when the public can’t attend. We are there when big companies try to close crucial medical clinics. We get answers from the people you want to question. But for 17 years, we have continued our work without a contract. We have always strived to serve our neighbors and uphold the values of honest journalism. Now, we are facing a critical moment. After years of negotiations without progress, we are preparing for a walkout to stand up for fair treatment and reasonable wages. Hearst has refused – for 17 years – to agree to contractual raises. We’re not arguing over 2 percent versus 3 percent. We are arguing for a raise at all, equally given to all the employees. Hearst has also said they won’t agree to any contract unless we break our unit in half, leaving the advertising department without any contractual protections. It is clear that they will not budge without concerted action on our part. But journalism doesn’t pay well. Our members often live paycheck to paycheck, relying on their wages to cover essential costs like rent, groceries, and medical expenses. Without a contract, and during a walkout, these basic needs become even harder to meet. That’s why we are reaching out to our community for support. Will you donate to our fund so that we can help members while they give up their pay during the walkout? Every contribution will go directly toward helping our members stay on their feet during this challenging time, ensuring they can continue to care for themselves and their families while fighting for a better future.