Getting a letter to the editor (LTE) published in the newspaper is an excellent way to educate the public about your issue, and to ensure that elected representatives hear the voices and opinions of their constituents. Following are some tips to help you get your letters published:
- Letters should be short – ideally 200-250 words long. In fact, some of the best LTEs are a mere 1-2 sentences long
- Letters should be timely – newspapers are more prone to publishing your LTE if it relates to an issue currently in the news. Finding a way to tie it in to a recent news story, or an upcoming event that is sure to be in the news is a great way to give your letter a leg up above the rest
- Letters should be personal – the LTE section of the newspaper provides a forum for people to express their opinions – express your passion and avoid sounding like an opinion-less textbook
- Think about your audience – who are you trying to influence with your letter? The general public? An elected official? Make sure that the message and tone of your letter will resonate with your target audience.
Finally, be sure to include your name, phone number, and address when you send in your letter.
Salt Lake Tribune Public Forum
90 S. 400 West, SLC UT 84101
letters@sltrib.com
Deseret News Readers’ Forum
P.O. Box 1257, SLC, UT, 84110
letters@desnews.com
Odgen Standard Examiner
P.O. Box 12790, Ogden, Utah 84412-2790
letters@standard.net
The Provo Daily Herald, Attn: Don Meyers
P.O Box 717, Provo, Utah 84603
dhletters@heraldextra.com
The St. George Spectrum
275 E. St. George Blvd, St. George, UT 84770
opinions@thespectrum.com
Here is a short document you can download with all above instructions. (PDF)
For More Information: HEAL Utah (801) 355-5055 or info@healutah.org
