Involving Congregations in Advocacy Now (ICAN) Introduction My Faith and Advocacy The How-tos of Advocacy How to bring advocacy to my congregation Resources Miscellaneous Activities and Handouts

Involving Congregations in Advocacy Now

• Introduction to Advocacy
• ELCA Washington Office: History
• The Mission Statement
• What is an Advocate?
• Ways to Influence Public Policy
• How to Visit a Legislator
• Make Your Letters Count
• How to Write a Letter to the Editor
• Tips on Telephoning Your Legislators
• "I can't get to see my legislator, now what?"
• Attending a Town Meeting
• Sample Role Play I: Social Concerns Committee
• Sample Role Play II: State Senator and Legislative Assistant
• Tough Questions Role Play

How to Write a Letter to the Editor

Other than the front page, the letters to the editor section is the most read part of your local newspaper. On average, 80 percent publish most of the letters they receive. Members of Congress pay close attention to letters, particularly if their names are mentioned. When you write your letter keep in mind the following suggestions:

1. Keep your letter short. It is recommended the length of your letter be about 250 words. Periodicals have a limited space and often receive more letters than they can possibly publish. If there is less editing for the editor it is more likely your letter will appear.
    

2. Get to the point. Letters should always state the specific issue, and what action should be taken. Include the name and/ or number of the bill you are commenting on. Mention the name of your Senator/ Representative and what action you would like them to take.
    

3. Write in simple language. Many newspapers have the motto “the readers of this newspaper move their lips as they read”. They are looking for letters that are understandable by a variety of educational levels. Writing an intelligible letter need not be complicated. Do not be afraid to address sophisticated subjects, just remember a “ball is a ball as well as a sphere.”
    

4. Be sure to be credible. If you use a statistic, cite your source. Check the number of your bill through the legislator’s office or call the Senate and House Bill Status number (202)225-1772 to see if the number has changed.
    

5. Be timely. Letters to the Editor need to be written as soon as you are aware of an action. Periodicals that are published daily, such as newspapers, treat news as “new” for only a short time. Editorials will be printed if they are current or if they reflect what will be happening in the near future.
    

6. Sign your letter. Newspapers will not publish your letter without a signature, although you may request that your name be kept anonymous. In considering this option remember that letters that are anonymous are often not considered credible. Include in your signature your residence and/ or voting district as well.
    

7. Send a copy of your letter to the ELCA Washington Office. We will use your letter as a resource to encourage others to write and will also be able to note others who support the position of the ELCA.  Another twist on this method is radio talk shows. Many of these call in programs have large listening audiences. It is good to have others with you to offer support and help should you get stuck on a question.