Handbook for Protests, Demonstrations & Focused Communications Electronic Activism Radio | TV | Newspapers | Chat Rooms & NewsGroups | Representatives |
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| There's
a strange relationship between elected officials/politicians and newspapers. You cna
write to a Senator's office, get a form letter in return, and accomplish very little. Or, you can influence the editorial content of a newspaper, get an op-ed (an article that appears opposite the editor's column) printed or appear in an article... and mention your rep's name one way or another, and you're sure to get some kind of repsonse. Politicians take newspapers seriously. Not as many people read newspapers anymore. But those who do are more involved, more educated, more wealthy and vote. A combination of facets that political minds take very seriously. You might think that getting a letter to the editor of your local newspaper won't accomplish anything. You would be very surprised. People will read it, ecen seek you out to agree or disagree with you. So, be sure that whatever you say is either very well balanced, or states your side very well. Remember, you live in that town. Don't make people angry just to vent your frustration. Think about what you want to say. Resist the temptation to make it personal. Address the facts. Refer to a story in that newspaper as what prompted you to write in the first place. This makes it relevant to the newspaper. Always make your point of local relevance whenever possible. If you want to submit an editorial, we have provided numerous resources that lead you to many editors. There are many more. A phone call, email or letter to the section editors of your local papers can also yield great results. Keep editorial between 200-300 words long. Always include your name, address and phone number (not to be printed) so they can verify its authenticity. Write a short cover letter requesting that it be printed, and why you believe it is relevant and useful. They'll usually contact you if they decide to use it.
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