How to Write a Letter to the Editor

Want to make an impact with just a few words? Writing a Letter to the Editor (LTE) of a local or statewide newspaper is a simple but powerful way to raise awareness, influence public opinion, and catch the attention of your Member of Congress (MoC). Support a cause you believe in, highlight an important issue, or share your story. Your voice matters! Here are some tips to help you speak out.

Read Indivisible's article "How to Write Letters to the Editor that Really Get Attention" to learn:

• Why your MoC cares about LTEs

• How to submit an LTE

• Tricks to make sure your letter leaves an impression

  
  

Linda Draper, a member of Oroville Area Resistance, outlines how to write an LTE to papers like the Chico Enterprise-Record. 

• Opening line & intro paragraph: summarize your issue/concern

• Explain your ties to the issue: why you’re speaking out, and why people should care

• Call to action: tell people what's at stake

• Conclusion: include specific take-action steps – how readers can get involved and ask leaders to act 

  
  

Here are Chico E-R's instructions to submit a letter:

• Letters must be typed, 250 word limit 

• Include first & last name, home address, and phone number. (They print your town's name, not your entire address.)

• Stick to the issues. No name-calling or personal insults 

• The paper: 

  • won't print anonymous letters

  • may edit or reject letters for length, taste, libel, and clarity

  • print letters in the order received

  • will publish one letter per writer every two weeks

    
    

Email your letter without attachments to letters@chicoer.com. (Mailing it to PO Box 9, Chico, CA 95927 is also an option but email is quicker.) If you have questions about your letter, email Linda Draper at lindyfern50@gmail.com for advice. She keeps track of the letters they print, so you’re also welcome to email her a copy.

Want to expand your reach? Here are guidelines to submit LTEs to the Sacramento Bee and Marysville's Appeal-Democrat. 

In the spirit of former Representative John Lewis, “Go write some GOOD TROUBLE!”

Graphic: Learning to Write With Children’s Letter Blocks

By Heidi Rand and Linda Draper