Shadowproof is a press organization driven to expose systemic abuses of power in business and government while at the same time developing a model for independent journalism that supports a diverse range of young freelance writers and contributors. It is intrinsically committed to elevating voices from marginalized communities, as well as dissenting perspectives which deserve greater attention.

Shadowproof pledges to remain ambitiously committed to cultivating an ideal press organization that is strengthened by the communities it works to serve and constantly influenced by the vision those communities have for what journalism can and should be.

Shadowproof believes that direct action and civil disobedience by citizens, including boycotts, divestment, freedom rides, sit-ins or strikes, represent the acts that have historically made transformation possible and changed society. That reality will be reflected in the journalism and writing published here.

We also acknowledge the overindulgent coverage given to electoral politics and declare upfront that the organization will not be a resource for updates on presidential horse races nor will it encourage such emphasis on who from the political elite will run and whether they can be a “serious” candidate or not. Nor will content solely be driven by what happens in the nation’s capital.

Additionally, thousands of newspapers that used to give attention to pressing local issues no longer exist, such as the San Francisco Bay Guardian. A dwindling number of media give attention to community news with many focusing exclusively on national issues for traffic. Shadowproof will pursue relationships with grassroots sources and organizations to challenge this alarming shift.

Shadowproof believes art and the act of storytelling have the power to challenge authority, humanize subjects, give voice to neglected perspectives and invite us to imagine and dream of a better world. Unfortunately, it is becoming increasingly hard to make a living creating art despite its value to democratic society. A long term objective will be to enhance community through writings that appreciate and explore film, music, books, comedy, theater, painting, and various other art forms.

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Logo designs by the talented Somerset Bean.