ECHO Action: Letters to the Editor & Legislators

Write, Call & Email: Letters to the Editor & Legislators

WRITE TO YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER

We strongly encourage you to write a letter to the Editor of your local newspaper stating your concerns, asking for support, and to respond to articles in the newspaper. We recommend focusing on one specific point, with supporting details, using short paragraphs.

WRITE, EDIT, READ ALOUD. EDIT AGAIN.

Then have a friend read your letter and give you feedback.

Does your letter say and mean what you intend it to? Words are powerful. Choose them carefully.

At the end of your letter, always include:

• Your first and last name

• Address including town and state

• Phone number (so they can call you with any questions)

SENDING YOUR LETTER

Via Online Form

It's easy! Just fill in the blanks and paste your letter into the box!

Via Email

• Most Editors prefer that your letter be in the text of the email, rather than in an attached file. Newspapers are busy places. Make your letter fast and easy to access.

• If you're sending your letter to multiple news outlets either send each one a separate email to them alone (preferred!) or send your email BCC.

• Do not send out a letter that shows emails to other newspapers. You may not get published.

• Add a quick line thanking the Editor for their time and consideration.

Guide To Writing Letters

Use our guide to help you write an effective letter to the editor!

Sample Letters To The Editor

Read recent letters from ECHO Action members!

CONTACTING YOUR LEGISLATORS

We strongly encourage you to write, email, call and use social media to contact your state representatives and elected officials regularly! If you do not contact them, they do not know you are concerned.

We have found all of the state representatives to be open to contact. Feel free to make contact directly. It's their job to listen to your concerns, to answer your questions and speak on your behalf.

It's important to know if your concern is a local, state or federal issue so you can determine who would be able to best assist you. When in doubt, you can call your state representative for guidance.