th
4
Quarter Project
WRITING AN ADVOCACY LETTER
Early:
Due:
Why Write Advocacy Letters?



To raise awareness of an issue, problem, or
cause
To provide a voice for a disadvantaged person
or group
To effect change
A good reason to write an advocacy letter is
because well-written letters are effective. The
following quote is from the US Government
Info website.
“People who think members of
congress
pay little or no attention to
constituent
mail are plain wrong.
Concise, well
thought out letters
are one of the most
effective ways
citizens have of
Influencing law-makers”
Who Should You Write To?


Write to the person or organization who can
effect change.
Make sure your letter is directed properly
CHECK THE FOLLOWING WEBSITE FOR
TIPS, LINKS TO ADDRESSES, AND SAMPLE
LETTERS:
http://www.dosomething.org/actnow/actionguide/
write-a-letter-to-elected-official
What should your letter focus on?



A SINGLE TOPIC OR ISSUE- If you are writing
with regard to a specific law or bill be sure to
correctly identify it.
YOUR RELATION TO THE ISSUE – Your purpose
for writing, and your particular concerns – how
does the issue affect you?
THE FACTS – Discuss the issue in a detailed way.
Mention it's effects, and give specific supporting
example.
What Should You Avoid?

An Inappropriate Tone – always be polite and
respectful
Negative Assumptions – always assume that the
person you are writing to is open and interested in
your insight


Overly Emotional Language – be as objective as
possible

Unnecessary Wordiness – your letter should be
concise and to the point
Political Action Committees suggest using the
following letter structure:
1) Identify yourself
- say why you are writing and who you are.
- identify yourself as a citizen and a voter.
- give your credentials and contact information
(officials are likely to respond.)
2) Discuss your issue in a detailed way
- Provide specific rather than general information
about how the topic affects you and others.
3) Request specific action
- a vote for a specific bill
- a change in policy
- a change in law
The most effective letters are polite, to the point,
and specific, with supporting facts and examples.
Your assignment:
-Choose a social justice issue that is important to
you and is affecting you or your community/nation.
-Research 2 potential recipients for your letter.
These should be local or national officials or
organizations
-Write a letter following the guidelines in this
presentation and on the linked website
- Hand in
 2 copies of your letter (typed and signed,)
 2 envelopes (stamped and addressed)
 1 page summary (your issue, your recipients and
their connection to the issue)