Writing a Letter to the Editor

Presbyterian peacemakers can help reclaim Jesus as a peacemaker and worker for justice by writing letters to the editor of local newspapers that raise questions about how justice will best be served in the public arena. Consider making a commitment to write at least one letter to the editor a week and sending it to one of your local newspapers. Visit the Media Guide in the Legislative Action Center and type in your zip code to find information about media outlets in your area.

Fifteen Thoughts:

Because we feel passionately about issues, it often is difficult to write about them in a way that will be heard. Here are some suggestions on writing a letter to the editor.

1. Be timely. Write about current events or issues.
 
2. Refer to specific articles or editorials that have appeared in the newspaper. This is particularly effective in the first sentence of the letter. For example: I was disappointed to see that the May 18 editorial overlooked some of the key aspects of the debate.
 
3. Focus on your main point clearly and concisely. Write all the things you want to say then pick the sentences that communicate your point most effectively.
 
4. Keep it short and on one subject. Short, concise letters are more likely to be published than long, meandering ones. Strive to stay under 150 words. Longer letters are more likely to be edited. It is always better to edit yourself.
 
5. Refer respectfully to appropriate elected officials. They will often have staff members who monitor the letters to the editor. For example: "I urge our Senators to support this bill."
 
6. Organize your letter logically. Identify the issue you are addressing. State your position. Present your evidence. Close with a short restatement of your position or a pithy comment.
 
7. Use facts, figures, and expert testimony. Readers respect the opinions of people with special knowledge or expertise.
 
8. Show your passion, but be respectful. Avoid anger, a shrill, abusive tone, and sarcasm.
 
9. Make it legible. Use a typewriter or computer or send your letter electronically.
 
10. Proofread your letter carefully for errors in spelling, punctuation and grammar. Newspapers will usually edit to correct these mistakes, but the "cleaner" it is, the more likely your letter piece is to be published.
 
11. Consider the reader's perspective. Will the arguments make sense to someone without a special background on this issue? Did you use jargon unfamiliar to the average reader? Read your letter to a family member or friend for objective input.
 
12. Include your contact information — name, address, day-time phone number and signature. Papers will not publish this information, but they may use it to verify that you wrote the letter.
 
13. Send letters to weekly community newspapers. It is often easier to get letters printed in papers with smaller circulations.
 
14. Persevere. If your letter is not chosen, keep on writing.
 
15. Most important — WRITE! Do not try to write a perfect letter. Just give it your best effort. Letter writing is the one thing that any of us can do on our own. No committees are necessary!