Packer we ain't

Last year, hundreds of Green Left Weekly supporters generously donated to the fighting fund. Contributions came in all sizes — ranging from $5 to $5000.

Green Left Weekly would like to extend a big "thank you" to all of those who donated money, resources and time to help Green Left stay in print.

This year, the ambitious target of $145,000 has been set for the fighting fund. January was a good start, with just over $11,000 being raised.

While $145,000 is a huge amount for most working people to contemplate, for the filthy rich it is peanuts. What for many would be the equivalent to a life-long mortgage or some other debt to the bank, for the likes of Kerry Packer, Australia's richest person, is a minuscule amount.

Packer's wealth in 1997 increased by $1.3 billion. What he collected in one hour would meet the $145,000 target. However, we are not holding our breath for a philanthropic contribution from Packer or his mates. Green Left relies on those who want to change the system, not on the minority who benefit from it.

The next time you come into contact with the Packer empire, whether the printed or electronic part, spare a thought — and perhaps some cash — for Green Left Weekly. Every contribution to the fighting fund makes a big difference.

Our readers aren't wealthy. But if all of them donated one hour's, one day's or one week's income, that would ensure another year of Green Left Weekly, another year of challenging the system that creates both billionaires and paupers.

Green Left Weekly — it's your paper.

From GLW issue 348