Letters to the editor are an effective way to communicate a message about an issue to the general public.

• Find a "hook." Most papers prefer letters written in response to an editorial, column, or news story that recently appeared in that paper. It is also useful to link the issue to current events.
  
  
• Be timely. The quicker the response to a piece, the better.
  
  
• Be succinct. Most papers limit the length of letters. If specific limits are not mentioned in the paper or on the website, call and ask.
  
  
• Research the topic. The letter should express an opinion, but it will be much stronger with facts, particularly if it is a rebuttal to a recent piece. Personal examples are also very powerful.
  
  
• Know the audience. Read past letters to the editor and become familiar with what the paper typically prints. It is much more difficult to be published in a metropolitan daily newspaper than in a neighborhood weekly. Try to relate the letter/issue to the local community.
  
  
• Submit the letter to one newspaper. Letters to the editor should be specific. Sending the same letter to multiple outlets dilutes the message and irritates the editors.
  
  
• Identify yourself. Include your name and your affiliation with NCJW (or another organization, if appropriate) to be published with your letter. If you are writing on behalf of NCJW or another organization, make sure that you have the organization's support for your point of view and permission to speak in their name. For the editor's information only (not to be published), include your complete contact information.