Advocacy - Find a Way
Tips on Writing a Letter to the Editor
Click here to link directly to the media center where you can select a newspaper and submit your letter electronically OR read further for Tips.
The letter to the editor section of the newspaper is one of the most widely read sections. Responding to an article or editorial previously published in your local paper offers a chance to increase awareness about healthcare reform and to offer your opinion of why it’s time to find a way.
Keep these tips in mind when writing a letter to the editor.
1. Keep it short. Three to four paragraphs is a good general length, but know
your outlet. Read through the letters from the past several days to get
a sense of what length that outlet prefers.
2. If possible, tie the letter to the Find a Way campaign and/or an upcoming
event.
3. Make one clear argument and be sure it relates to the previously published
article or opinion piece to which you’re responding.
4. Cite the article or opinion piece in your letter.
5. Stay calm and constructive in your writing.
6. It is ok to follow up on your submission with an e-mail or a call within a day
or two, but keep in mind that editors receive hundreds of letters and may
not respond immediately.
7. If the outlet does not use your letter, consider making your opinion known
on the outlet’s Web site either by posting a comment in direct response
to the specific article or by participating in the outlet’s online blog.
Click here to link to the media center where you can select a newspaper and submit your letter electronically.
