Tips for letter writers

Letters to the editor are a simple and powerful advocacy tool. A letter to the editor will put your issue in the minds of many people. Some will be inspired to write their own letters, supporting your points. Others may write to take issue with your perspective, stirring further community dialogue. Legislators regularly read this section to find out what their constituents are thinking.

A Birmingham News editor offers advice on making your letter to the editor more effective -- and more likely to get published.

Get letter-writing tips here.