To achieve its goals, the CMAQ needs the help from the greatest number or individuals and groups as possible. The smallest donation will be appreciated.

In Canada as in the rest of the world, freedom of speech and of the press - essential elements for any kind of real democracy - are under threat by media mergers and the ensuing concentration of ownership. Fewer people controlling the media means there are fewer gatekeepers, fewer gatekeepers means fewer avenues for diffusing information, fewer avenues means there is less information out there. This is a dangerous spiral, and one that must be stopped.

In an attempt to break free from this vicious circle, the Centre for Media Alternatives – Quebec 2001, comes with the mandate to stop the spiral and provide different forums of information. Since last October dozens of people have uploaded about a thousand texts, pictures and audio and video material concerning globalisation and the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) on to the CMAQ .

The site is now being visited by 5000 people per week and we expect (according to similar experiences during major anti-globalization event) to reach the million between April 16 and 22. CMAQ will be the most important media to present alternatives views on the FTAA.

CMAQ has opened a newsroom in Quebec City since February. In April, that room will host some 30 computers, video and audio studios, photo labs, etc… We expect to receive more than 250 independent journalists in April. Audio and Video Streams will be accessible from the CMAQ web site during the same period.

For Quebec City 2001, to stimulate debate and bring about a real democratic exercise the CMAQ is more than necessary, it is primary. To achieve its goals, the CMAQ needs the help from the greatest number or individuals and groups as possible. We are now looking for a few thousands but the smallest donation will be appreciated.

We hope that your organisation will be able to help support this important project.

You too can support the CMAQ!