Three years ago, OutSFL was born from uncertainty.
When South Florida Gay News closed its doors, many wondered whether LGBTQ journalism in South Florida would survive. The easy thing would have been to walk away.
Instead, we chose to build something new.
Today, as OutSFL celebrates its third anniversary, we're proud of what we've accomplished together.
What started as a newspaper has grown into so much more. We publish daily online news, weekly print editions, newsletters, special publications, community events, the Reader's Choice Awards, the Mizz OutSFL Pageant, and OutFAU, helping train the next generation of LGBTQ journalists. Most recently, we've expanded north with the launch of OutPBC, bringing dedicated LGBTQ coverage to Palm Beach County.
Most importantly, we've done it without a paywall.
Every story we publish is available to everyone. We believe LGBTQ news should be accessible, not locked behind a subscription. But while our journalism is free to read, it is not free to produce.
Reporters, photographers, designers, printing, distribution, websites, newsletters, insurance, legal expenses, technology — all of it costs money.
Unlike many mainstream newspapers, we don't have subscription revenue. We depend largely on advertising and community support.
That's why today, on our anniversary, we're asking for your help.
If you own a business, please consider advertising with any of the products under our OutSFL umbrella including OutPBC, OutFAU – our newsletters, website, etc. Our readers are loyal, engaged, and committed to supporting businesses that support our community.
If you know a business that would be a good fit, make an introduction. Those connections matter more than you may realize.
And if you're not a business owner, you can still help. Support the advertisers who support us. Visit their stores. Use their services. Tell them you saw them in OutSFL.
You can also donate or sign up to our new membership tier. . Every contribution helps us continue doing the work that matters: telling our stories, holding institutions accountable, celebrating our victories, and documenting our history.
The reality is simple: queer media survives only when the LGBTQ community chooses to support it.
As attacks on our rights continue and misinformation spreads faster than ever, independent journalism matters. Local journalism matters. LGBTQ journalism matters.
For three years, we've shown up for this community. We've covered the triumphs, the tragedies, the elections, the Pride celebrations, the drag shows, the protests, the nonprofits, the businesses, and the people who make South Florida extraordinary.
Now we're asking you to show up for us.
To our readers, contributors, photographers, columnists, advertisers, sponsors, volunteers, community partners, and supporters: thank you. Every click, every share, every story tip, every advertisement, every donation, and every word of encouragement has helped us reach this milestone.
Three years later, we're still here.
With your support, we'll be here for many more.
