Stop The Oppression Permanently
Letter Writing HowTo
A short guide to writing letters
This is a very short guide to writing letters which should prove useful to beginners and experienced participants. The topics covered are the following:
Why should I write?
Letter writing is like voting.
Through your letter, you let people know where you stand on an issue. Politicians and business people do take into account the overall public pulse, so by voicing your position, you really do influence decision-making. Often, even though your letter may not actually get read, its arrival still will get noticed!
Additionally, the general public does read letters, on the net or in print media. Newspapers say that the letters to the editor is the most read section next to the front page. So through your words, you will likely influence other people too!
What to write about?
There are plenty of worthy causes both global and local that need championing.
Pick one. Learn about it. Then write about it.
One can usually research the topic using the internet and even get example letters on which to base one's own work.
Take advantage of local situations:
- Thanksgiving coming up: write about the cruelty turkeys undergo.
- Circus in town: write about the mistreatment of animals at these 'shows'.
- Slaughterhouse near town: write about the horror of the victims.
- Puppy mill close by: write about exploitation of dogs so someone can make a buck.
Take advantage of your situation:
- As a nutritionist: write about the research on hazards of animal product consumption.
- As a taxpayer: write about tax dollars wasted on corporate welfare to the meat industry.
- As a parent: write about the importance of bringing up children in a society which opposes animal cruelty.
How to write?
Generally, short letters will 'make it' more easily than long ones. Short letters are easier to read and tend to be more comfortable for most attention spans. Some media intentionally limit letters to the editor to under 300 words.
On some occasions, longer efforts are desirable, especially if one is trying to communicate considerable technical detail. However, opinion pieces are best kept short.
When to write?
Anytime the urge hits you! You don't have to wait till someone tells you to write about a bad situation - there seem to be plenty of those around!
Make writing an ongoing activity. Keep and even reuse your letters. Give them to colleagues to inspire them to write also!
Where to get guidance?
Here are some resources on letter writing that may be useful:
In a democratic country, you have the opportunity to have your say. You can help determine your country's destiny. So set it write!