Letters to the editor are a key part of our efforts to inform the public about the important work we do for Minnesota.
Please see the bottom of this page to search for newspapers in your area.
Our core message is about the essential services we provide for the state. Many people are hurting right now. While cuts, furloughs or layoffs would certainly be devastating to our families, many people are also experiencing difficulties right now. Our focus is on the essential services we provide, not our personal situations.
Please use your letter to talk about the work you do for Minnesotans in your letter. Who would happen if you weren't there to do your job? For example, some MAPE members have said things like this:
- "I help underprivileged students attend college."
- "I help keep our lakes and rivers clean."
- "I help unemployed people find new jobs."
Other tips:
- Keep it very brief. Most Letters to the editor should be under 250 words. Edit your letter aggressively.
- Paint a picture. Use personal stories to convey larger issues. Touch both the minds and hearts of the reader by giving both the facts and your personal experience that illustrate those facts.
- Be clear. This may seem obvious, but a surprising number of letters that don't get published because they don't make sense. Let a friend or colleague review the letter for you before you send it.
- Be passionate, but not poisonous. Avoid sarcasm, and if you are angry, cool off a bit before sending a final version.
