Writing a letter to the editor (LTE) or op-ed opinion piece is a powerful way to share your opinions with hundreds--and probably thousands--of people. These are among the most-read sections of the paper. You can guarantee that senators, city council members and other community leaders are paying attention.
These skills also come in handy for posting on social media or just talking with your friends and family about issues that concern you.
Here are some general LTE Guidelines:
Keep it brief
Keep it fewer than 200 words (check with the paper you’re targeting; some allow more or fewer words). Focus your letter on one point and don’t bring up other issues in your writing. Stick to your point. Do not repeat your opponent’s arguments or take the myth/fact approach. Restating a contrary position only serves to put it in print once again.
Make it local and original
Newspapers care about what affects the people who buy their newspapers, and they know--and reject-- form letters when they see them. If you are working with talking points provided to you, change the words to make them yours. Do not copy talking points or materials verbatim.
Make it timely
Relate your letter to an article or issue that has been printed recently. Is a deadline coming soon for a decision about an important issue? Send your letter and tell readers how to take action.
Make it personal
Your personal stories, your voice, your perspective, and your genuine passion for the topic are powerful tools. Tell a story that shows why this issue is important. Everyone loves a good story.
Include your contact information
Full name, address, phone number, email. Most editors will contact you to confirm you submitted the letter. Don’t worry, personal information (other than your name) isn’t printed.
Follow up
Make sure to call the newspaper and ask if they received your letter (this will increase the chances of them printing your letter!) Show how your issue will have a local impact, or how it will affect you or your family.
Op-eds are similar to LTEs, but they’re usually longer, 300-600 words. Some digital publications accept longer pieces up to 1200 words. Always contact the publication or look up the information on their website before submitting your piece.
Where to submit your LTE or Op-ed
Las Vegas Review Journal -- Submit Letter Here
Las Vegas Sun -- letters@lasvegassun.com
Nevada Independent -- submissions@thenvindy.com
Nevada Current -- hugh@nevadacurrent.com
Nevada Appeal (Carson City) -- Submit Your Letter Here.
Reno Gazette Journal -- letters@rgj.com
Tahoe Daily Tribune (South Lake Tahoe) -- Submit Your Letter Here
Sierra Sun (Truckee and North Shore) -- Submit Your Letter Here
Elko Daily Free Press - Submit Your Letter Here
Mesquite Local News
Now that you've gone through all that effort, take a few minutes more to send it to your Senators and Congressional Representatives.