Summary:

GoComics is a website owned by Andrews McMeel, which syndicates many comics, including famous strips like Garfield, FoxTrot, and Calvin and Hobbes. Recently, they starting placing comics behind a paywall—free accounts can no longer read strips older than one month, which has upset many users.

Details:

For a more inspiring message, here is the description listed on a petition launched to change this:

“For years, GoComics has been a beloved space where fans of all ages could enjoy daily comic strips, discover new creators, and engage with a community brought together by humor, storytelling, and artistic talent. 
The introduction of a paywall has drastically limited access to both classic and contemporary comics, excluding many longtime readers—especially younger audiences, students, and families—who can no longer afford to enjoy the content they’ve grown up with. Comics have always been a powerful source of joy, inspiration, and even healing. They connect us across generations and offer a small escape from the stresses of everyday life. A paywall disrupts this tradition, turning what once felt like an open library of art and humor into a gated experience. 
As someone who has relied on GoComics daily, I’ve personally felt the loss. I used to read GoComics every morning, exploring everything from Calvin and Hobbes to newer strips. It was part of my routine—something that brought comfort, curiosity, and laughter. I learned about storytelling, visual pacing, and even history through comics. Now, with the paywall, I’ve lost access to this part of my day. It’s disheartening to see a platform that once felt like a gift to the public become a service only for those who can afford to pay. It sends the message that art, humor, and community are only for those with disposable income. 
While we understand the need for revenue to support creators and maintain the platform, there are better alternatives. Options like an ad-supported free tier, voluntary donations, or optional premium features could help sustain the site financially without alienating the very community that built GoComics’ success. 
We call on the President of Andrews McMeel Syndication, and the GoComics management team to listen to your readers—the ones who’ve supported you for years—and to reconsider this decision. Help keep GoComics open to everyone, not just those who can afford another subscription.” -Roger Garshelis

Call to Action:

I (Devon, the creator of The Bird Birds) believe that comics should be easily accessible to all. As you might have guessed, I, too, am a lover of comics. I have read and enjoyed comics for most of my life. Before I got busier with school and other things, I would read the latest comics every day and spend hours reading older strips. I was very disappointed to find out that GoComics no longer allowed people to access all comics for free. If you agree, please sign the petition with the button below. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

-Devon