Open City (newspaper)

Open City was a counterculture weekly newspaper published in Los Angeles, California, from May 1967 to April 1969. Founded by artist and publisher, Don Letts, and initially edited by John Bryan, the paper quickly became a prominent voice of the burgeoning underground press movement.

Open City distinguished itself with its provocative content, often challenging social norms and government policies. It featured radical political commentary, poetry, experimental fiction, and explicit illustrations and cartoons. Contributors included Charles Bukowski, who penned the "Notes of a Dirty Old Man" column, as well as contributors like Allen Ginsberg, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, and many other voices of the counterculture.

The newspaper's outspoken stance led to frequent clashes with authorities, including obscenity charges. Open City was known for its anti-war sentiment, its advocacy for free speech, and its exploration of alternative lifestyles. It played a significant role in shaping the cultural landscape of Los Angeles and contributed to the broader countercultural movement of the late 1960s.

Despite its relatively short lifespan, Open City had a lasting impact on underground journalism and its influence can be seen in the alternative media outlets that followed. Its archives offer a valuable glimpse into the social and political climate of the era.