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Writing Letters to the Editor
A letter to the editor enables you to inform a large audience (your community) about important issues. In fact, according to several surveys, the letters to the editor section of the newspaper is read more frequently than any other. Letters to the editor are often perceived as a representation of broad public sentiment by legislators and other important readers.
Tips for Your Letter
Keep it short and sweet. Know what you want to say, then say it plainly so people who aren’t as knowledgeable about your issue can understand. Letters should be brief, clear, and to the point. Approximately one page or less, or about two to three short paragraphs (max. 250-300 words) should be all that is needed to adequately address the issue. Short letters are much more likely to be printed than long ones due to newspaper space requirements.
Localize and personalize. Point to local examples in your community or tell a personal story that illustrates your point. This helps readers relate to what you are saying.
Be polite.
Write legibly. Type or handwrite clearly. Include your full name, address and phone number.
Fact check. Make sure facts and figures are correct.
Persevere. If there is more than one newspaper in your area, you can send a letter to each of them. Also try weekly publications. Keep trying if your letter isn’t printed immediately, and look for new opportunities to write a new letter (see below).
Timing is Everything
When reading your newspaper, be aware of good opportunities to write a letter on your issue:
- Explain how your issue relates to other items currently being covered in the news.
- Point to the local effects of state and national issues, and raise local public awareness of an issue(s).
- Furnish insight on news and issues not being adequately covered by your local newspaper.
- Correct facts after a misleading, inaccurate or biased letter or story.
- Respond to other editorials.
- Rebut a news or feature story with a different point of view.
Source: MacEachern, Diane. Enough is Enough. Avon Books, New York. 1994:226-27.
© 2008 California League of Conservation Voters. Contact us.
