A major challenge experienced by gun rights advocates is getting our side of the issue before the public. Negative reporting on firearms and their misuse is an everyday occurrence. When was the last time you heard a pro-gun item on the news, or read of legitimate use of firearms in your local newspaper?
One effective way of disseminating the truth about guns and gun owners is via letters to the editor. The editorial opinion page, to include Letters to the Editor, is the third most widely read page of the newspaper (after the front page and the sports page). Here is your opportunity to set the record straight and tell the non-shooting public the “other side of the story.†This is one area where most newspapers do try to present a balanced picture.
Letters to the Editor should be kept short and concise. While many newspapers claim to accept letters of up to 200 or 250 words in length, it’s best to keep it to 150 words or less. While longer letters are occasionally published, the shorter ones stand a much greater chance of publication (and of being read). You should focus on one or two points. Use plain and simple English. State your case; cite facts to back up your position. Close with your bottom line summary.
Letters to the Editor can usually be submitted by e-mail, by fax or by snail mail. E-mail is the preferred method. Submission directions can usually be found on the editorial page itself, or on the “opinion†page of a newspaper’s on-line edition. Act today, before it’s too late.
