Letter to the Edifor

Writing a Letter to The Editor

Some Helpful Hints Letters to the editor constitute another form of action you can take to make a difference in the lives of people who confront poverty on a daily basis. Letters speak not only to a individual legislators, but to an entire community of readers. In fact, the "Letters to the Editor" page is among the most widely read. Enough letters on a given topic demonstrate broad community support for a particular position or issue.

When should I write a letter to the editor?

Anytime you feel passionately about an issue
Especially when you have a personal story to share related to a particular issue
Especially when you want to influence legislators other than your own
Especially when you want to influence broader public opinion

What should I say in my letter?

Letters to the editor should be short and punchy. 100-200 words or less is best!
Before you begin writing, think to yourself: What message do I want people to hear, and what is the best way to convey that message?
Mention your reason for writing in the first sentence. Be as specific about the issue as you can.
Limit the content of your letter to one or two key points. Remember: this is a concise statement on one subject, not an in-depth analysis.
Stay positive. It is tempting to write an angry letter in response to something you've read. Don't! People will respond better to a more positive approach. So instead of saying that the legislature's vote on health care makes you mad, say, "I expect the legislature to take a stand so that all of us can enjoy access to health care."
Take a strong position without alienating potential readers. Include fresh facts you haven't seen elsewhere in the press, honest statements of opinion, creativity, and humor.

How do I increase my chances of getting a letter published?

Convince other Sowers of Justice members, friends, and family to write in about the same issue. A number of letters on the same issue signals that the issue is important and increases the likelihood that at least one gets published.
Respond quickly. If you see a story in the media you want to respond to, try to email or fax your letter by the next day at the latest.Include your name, address, email and telephone. Only your name and city will be published. Editors want the other information so they can contact you to verify that you are the author of the letter.
Make sure your letters get into the right hands. Call your paper or go online and ask for the name and correct contact information of the person to whom you should mail, email, or fax the letter.
Avoid letters with more than one signatory. These rarely get published.

Contact info for local newspapers