E-MAIL CONGRESS

Users may e-mail members of Congress, the President, and other government officials about immigration issues.

HOW TO WRITE A LETTER TO THE EDITOR

Use your own voice
Use talking points and the sample letter below as a starting point for your own message. Letters with a personal angle are always more compelling. Ask yourself how a legal immigration program will affect you, your family or your business.

Be concise
Keep it brief and to the point. Letters under 250 words in 3-5 paragraphs are much more likely to be published.

Make specific references
While some newspapers will print general commentary letters, many prefer letters that respond to a specific article. Be sure to mention the title and date of the article you are responding to within your first two sentences.

Be factual
Highlight aspects of the issue that have not been previously addressed. Utilize the Get the Facts and for fresh messages that newspapers may have failed to cover.

Tie the letter to an outreach event
Editors are interested in printing letters that relate to events happening in the community. Frequently check for grassroots activities in your area.

Stay calm
Use no more than one exclamation point per letter. Do not attack anyone personally. Stick to the facts and keep the letter respectful.

Include your contact information
Many newspapers will only publish a letter to the editor after verifying the author’s contact information. When printed, the letter will usually only include your name and city.