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Want
to support your candidate but don’t have the time to volunteer?
Volunteering
on a candidate’s campaign is not the only way to take action
and mobilize support. Writing a letter to the editor or participating
in a radio station call-in are two easy and effective actions
that can be achieved from the comfort of your home or in just
a few moments of your time. Both letters to the editor and radio
call-ins are successful in disseminating your opinions on policy
and election issues. As Election Day approaches, addressing issues
related to candidates on the national, state, and local level
will be timely. Abundant opportunities will be available for you
to get politically involved and share the perspective of a professional
social worker.
Writing a Letter to the Editor
The "Letters to the Editor" section in the newspaper
is one of the most widely-read features. This section not only
reaches readership, but has an impact on the news stories that
the paper covers. Furthermore, elected officials monitor this
section to gain insight into constituents' viewpoints regularly.
Since newspapers
generally have strict space guidelines, not all letters will be
published. The following tips will increase the chances of publishing:
-
Keep it
short- Newspapers reserve the right to edit submissions. The
rule of thumb is 200 words or less to ensure that a salient
point is not edited out.
-
Respond
to recent articles- Newspapers tend to print letters that are
responses to previous articles. If you see a chance, respond
as soon as possible to the article you have read.
-
Keep it
local-The more the article is related to your specific community,
the better the chances it has of being published.
-
Use positive
language- It is easier to persuade the newspaper and readership
utilizing positive arguments when compared to negative language
and content.
-
Be factual
and original- Highlight factual aspects of the issue that have
not been previously addressed.
-
Include
your name and contact information.
-
Proofread
and spell check your letter.
-
Be sure
that if you mention a specific campaign or candidate that you
do not use your organizational affiliation (i.e. NASW member),
simply include your contact information.
Radio
Call-Ins
It is best to be familiar with the show that you will be calling.
The content, style, and affiliation of the host will help you
tailor your message. When preparing for a call-in, you may want
to practice verbalizing your argument in your own words, or you
can prepare a written outline to keep you focused. It is best
to prepare for potential arguments to your points by brainstorming
possible responses to those arguments.
When
calling-in:
-
Call the
show immediately- You are most likely to get to speak if you
call the show early, as programs may not speak with all callers.
The earlier you begin calling, the better.
-
Turn off
the radio- You will be able to listen to the show through the
phone while you are on hold. If the radio is left on, it can
be a distraction for you.
-
Be specific-
When getting screened before speaking on the show, it is best
to be as specific as possible in regard to the topic that you'd
like to discuss. It will likely increase your chances of speaking
on the show.
-
State your
name- When welcomed to the show, it is appropriate to state
either your first name or full name. Include any credentials
that you deem necessary, and Say you’re a Social Worker!
However, be sure that if you mention a specific campaign or
candidate that you do not use your organizational affiliation
(i.e. NASW).
-
Make your
point- It is best to state your argument quickly and succinctly,
as there is often little time allotted for each caller. Make
sure that all subsequent statement underscores your main argument.
We'd like to hear from you about your experiences. Should you have comments, questions, contact us at 1.800.724.6279.
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