How to Write a Letter to the Editor

Believe it or not, the editorial page is one of the most widely read sections of the newspaper. This post is about ways to write an effective letter to the editor in support of a candidate or cause. As in everything, there is an easy way and there is an effective way. One of the easy ways is to go here: http://www.dccc.org/page/speakout/dailies enter your zip code and select the newspapers you want your message sent to and then tailor your message and hit send.

In researching for this post, I came across several good sites with suggestions for writing effective letters. I will share a few. The first is http://reclaimdemocracy.org/effective_letters_editor/ Here they give great suggestions on things to DO and things to AVOID.

A few of the DO's:

• Focus on one important point (don’t try to address separate issues in one letter). Be sure to follow the guidelines and word count limit of the target publication (up to 250 words is typical for local and regional papers, but many larger newspapers are limited to 150 or so and some magazines limit letters to less than 100 words)."
• Maximize your chance of being published by removing every non-essential word. For example, don’t say, “I think…” It’s obvious. This also minimizes the chance of editors changing the letter.

and the AVOID's: 

• Don’t overstate/exaggerate your points. One overstatement makes every following point suspect.
• Don’t insult your opponents.

The National Education Association also has a great site with tips for effective letters to the editor: 

http://www.nea.org/home/19683.htm

 "Letters to the editor can be effective in influencing public opinion and legislators' views. The "Letter to the Editor" section is one of the most widely read parts of most newspapers, offering a chance to reach a broad audience. Letters to the editor can provide readers with information and insights on issues with which they may be unfamiliar, and can also inspire readers to take action." A few of their tips include: Keep it brief, get to the point, and personalize the issue. The others are common sense and help make sure your message is selected to be published.

 

The Oregon League of Conservation Voters also has some great tips on their site: http://olcveducationfund.org/node/5267 

So, whether you take the easy route and click on the DCCC site or choose the more effective method of writing your own personalized letters, please try to do at least one in the coming weeks. 

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