I’d be grateful if we could keep this between us: I’ve been writing for the Observer and the Guardian for 30 years. That’s a long time in politics – or anything else.
A lot has changed since a young reporter first sat down to produce a news report on a typewriter (if you are under 40, consult a dictionary or ask your parents). Governments have come and gone. So have fashions, whether they be in food, hairstyles or economics.
One thing hasn’t changed: the values we bring to our journalism. Unquenchably curious about our world and the glorious diversity of the people who inhabit it. Always ready to challenge those who wield power. Plural. Tolerant. Internationalist. Fairness for everyone; favours for no one. I hope we occasionally make you smile as well.
The other constant is our relationship with readers. It has been a pleasure and a privilege to meet many of you. Sometimes you have been kind enough to say that you enjoy our work. Sometimes you have wanted to argue. You wouldn’t be our readers if you didn’t like an argument.
Technology now makes it possible to talk to the planet without ever opening your front door. But there’s still nothing to beat seeing each other in person. Making our conversation deeper and richer is at the heart of Guardian Membership.
Here’s the deal. Membership is your ticket to a unique range of festivals, screenings, interviews and debates. From film to fracking, think of a subject that excites you or an issue that animates you and I’m pretty confident there’ll be a live event where you’ll want to be.
I know you’ll forgive me for plugging my specialist area, especially when there’s an election on. As we build up to decision day, it would be great if you could join us for one of the Observer Election Countdown events on 16, 23 and 30 April. My colleagues and I will offer our take on what is at stake and who is prevailing in the battle for power. We’ll take your questions and we want to hear your views.
Whether you can make these election events or not, I hope you can support the Observer’s and the Guardian’s journalism by joining Guardian Membership. You’ll be backing the values that I’m sure will remain at the heart of the Guardian and the Observer for the next 30 years and beyond.
