1. Writing Letters to Elected Officials

2. Why write elected officials?
To demonstrate awareness
To explain the importance of an issue
To persuade
To build your reputation

3. Write elected officials:
To respond to an action or decision
To lobby an official
To voice concern
To point out a deficiency or need
To request information 3

4. Include in your letter:
An official opening
Your purpose
Understanding of the issue
Your position
Others affected
Acknowledgement of past support
Desired action 4

5. Include at the end of the letter:
Thank you
Your full name
Address
Phone number 5

6. E-mail pros and cons: Pros Cons Faster than regular mail
Easy to respond to
Reliable
Less likely to get lost
Cons
Easily deleted and forgotten
Less effective than paper mail 6