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Objectives:

• Help shape public perception (invisible power) and understanding of a policy issue
• Influence policymakers and decision makers by increasing visibility and public pressure
• Elevate community voices and lived experiences </aside>

Letters to the Editor (LTE):

LTEs are short, opinion-driven, informative letters submitted by the public to media outlets to raise awareness about an issue or create public pressure towards elected officials. Submission requirements will vary depending on the media outlet; some outlets have an online form you can fill out, and others will require you to send the letter via email to their editor.

Tips for writing an LTE:

• Make sure to have credible information and variable content. All information should be able to be fact checked and have credibility since this a published piece.
• Make sure to stay current, responding to a recent opinion article or news story increases our chances of getting published.
• Check the guidelines for the media outlet you are submitting. Different outlets will have specific character or word counts.
• If submitting to multiple outlets, make sure to tailor each version to avoid rejection
• Media editors do review your letter upon submission, submission does not guarantee you get published.

LTE Template

[Your Name]

[Your Address] (optional, depending on outlet)

[City, State, ZIP Code]

[Email Address / Phone Number] (optional but often required)

[Date]

1. Opening (Introduce the issue briefly)

State what prompted your letter. Refer to a recent article, policy decision, event, or public statement. Mention the issue clearly and concisely.

2. Main Argument (Present your perspective)

Explain your position on the issue. Use one or two strong, fact-based arguments. You can include relevant data, examples, or personal experiences that support your stance. * NOTE: make sure that this is credible and can be fact checked.

3. Call to Action