4 th 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: 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)