Writing a letter to the editor is a powerful method to put your point across to a vast audience at no cost.
– Respond as quickly as possible to issues raised in the news. The issue may not be news tomorrow.
– Refer and reply to another letter or article in the same publication.
– Include your name, street address and telephone no at the bottom. (The newspaper may want to check you want it published).
– Look at the length and style of the letters published in your newspaper and try to copy this.
– Find out the name and title of the letters page editor and address to him/her.
Explain why the topic is important to you and give a little background on it and what your opponents are saying (perhaps referring to a previous letter or article). Then explain why your view is correct.
If you speak on behalf of an organisation, say so in the letter and under your signature. This helps create credibility.
Do not copy other people's words. State your own view in your own words.
Check your facts carefully before you send it. Slight inaccuracies or misquotations could undermine your credibility.
Check your letter and ask someone else to proof read it for grammar and spelling.
If you have a specific reason why you don't want your name to be used, ask a friend to send it for you or alternatively use a pseudonym. eg. Sign it with a name like 'Deeply concerned' or 'Medical student' or 'Offended taxpayer'. You must still include your real name and street address below this.
After you have sent the letter, wait a few days. If it is not published, then phone the letters editor and ask why it was not published. Don't accept the excuse given – ask them to publish it.
Stick to one subject – don't try to cover too many issues.
Avoid being aggressive, using abusive language or ridiculing those we oppose. Always offer hope to those caught in sin.
If you email to more then one newspaper, then send as separate individual emails.