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Write a Letter to the Editor

"All I know is what I read in the newspapers." --Will Rogers

Why write a letter to the editor?
Key Northwest issues to write about
Tips on writing a strong letter
Where to submit your letter

Why write a letter to the Editor?

Dialogue between neighbors, strangers, politicians, and citizens is essential to keeping each other informed and thoughtful about issues that affect our lives. Letters to the editor, and to our legislators, are an effective way to share information and influence public opinion.

Below, we list some critical Northwest issues that Sightline has researched whose outcomes will depend on the level of public awareness and community participation. If you would like to express your feelings on an important issue, here are some tips on how to craft a strong letter, some relevant articles you can cite, and suggestions on where to submit.

What to write about

It's important that you write about a local issue and solution that you feel strongly about. Newspapers are more likely to publish an op-ed on an issue that relates to a current event or one that is likely to be considered by government or voters soon. Here are a few ideas on changes Sightline would like to see:

Use the market to encourage energy efficiency:

Urge realtors to include energy efficiency information in all home listings, like they're doing in Portland.
Use "feebates" and stop rewarding gas guzzlers.

Promote health with transportation options:

Support pay-as-you-drive insurance that rewards people for driving less.
Invest in cost-effective features that promote safety and health including sidewalks, bike paths, traffic safety, interconnected streets, and transit.

Reduce toxic threats in our homes and environment:

Prove safety before introducing new chemicals.
Encourage manufactures to take responsibility for the disposal of their products.

If you are concerned about the impacts of these issues, please write to your local and regional newspapers.

Resources

Recent news articles on Tidepool, Sightline’s news service.
Sightline articles on systemic solutions for the Northwest.

Tips on Writing a Strong Letter

Be relevant: Tie your letter into recent articles in the news, and cite names and specific events. Refer to the article you’re responding to by title, and include the date. (The sooner you respond to an article, the more likely it is your letter will be published.)
Be concise: Limit your letters to about 250 words or less.
Be focused: State your main point early in the letter, and stay on that one topic.
Be memorable: Include personal experiences in your letter, if possible.
Give readers something to do: If appropriate, suggest an action readers can take, or a resource where they can get more information (such as Sightline’s website).
Go local: You have a better chance of getting your letter printed if you are a resident of the area the publication covers.
Don’t forget: Be sure to include your contact information; most editors won’t publish letters without first verifying your identity and address.

You can usually find a newspaper’s specific format requirements and mailing addresses in the Opinion section.