The opinions section of local media remains one of the most-read news segments. Submitting a Letter to the Editor (LTE) is a great way to share your perspective and advocate for solutions. Use the form below to submit an LTE to help support your advocacy with the Sierra Club - Wisconsin Chapter.
Tips for writing an LTE:
- Keep it short: Be sure to stay under the paper’s maximum word length, usually around 200-250 words.
- Be timely: Respond to a published article, editorial, or letter within a day or two. Include the title, writer, and date in your letter.
- Be focused: Limit yourself to one specific policy or issue. Briefly and clearly make one or two points.
- Be relevant: Write about a current issue. As you can, show its effect on the local community.
- Make it personal: Tell your own story or something about you that has shaped your reaction to the issue.
- Write for the average reader: Assume most will not know about the topic. Provide a short background and avoid insider jargon and acronyms.
- Stick to the facts: Make your argument with verified facts, but do not include too many. Personal stories are what people remember the most.
- Keep your composure: Express your feelings, but avoid outright partisanship and personal attacks.
- Name drop: Catch the attention of an elected official or business by putting their name in the letter.
- Call to action: State the change or action you want to see.