Writing a Letter to the Editor
A letter to the editor is an effective way to convey your message. Local newspapers and publications are more likely to print a letter to the editor (LTE) than national or mainstream publications. Regional papers generally publish around 80% of letters received, if they are from a local resident.
Before you get started:
- Editorial guidelines for newspapers and magazines often appear on the Opinion or LTE pages.
- Brief, to-the-point letters are best. Examine your publication to gauge the usual length of the letters they print. Don’t exceed that length.
When you write:
- Keep it short. Ideally, between 150 and 250 words.
- Limit your letter to one idea or concept.
- Don’t submit form letters. If you are using a template, personalize it in some way.
- Avoid personal attacks in your letter.
- Refer or respond to other stories or LTEs, if possible. (Do it as soon as possible after the printing of the publication you are referencing, i.e. “I agree with Nancy Smith who suggested in her letter of June 5th that….”)
- Always include your contact info: name, address, phone #, email address. It will be used to contact you if the editor has questions. Relevant degrees or job titles are fine, too.
- Mention PPNNE and www.ppnne.org, if possible, in addition to addressing the topic at hand.
If you need further help, please feel free to contact a Planned Parenthood of Northern New England Director of Public Affairs for your state.