Letters to the Editor

Letters to the editor are an essential part of any serious newspaper. Letters to the editor, by definition, are "letters written to a newspaper, magazine or other periodical about issues of concern to readers, usually intended to be published in the paper/periodical." For example, I once read an article in the Toronto Sun about the city not allowing Miss Universe, Natalie Glebova, to attend an event at city hall with her sash. I agreed with the article's writer that the bylaw was a little odd but I took offense to the writer's biased opinion and his chauvinistic disregard for the feminist protest against beauty pageants. I then sat down and expressed my opinion via email to the editor of the Toronto Sun. The next day my letter was printed in the newspaper and shipped across the province. It was easy and fun.

Newspapers like to publish letters for a number of reasons. Firstly, letters are valuable because they create an interaction between the newspaper, along with its editor and writers, and its readers. Secondly, it keeps them accountable. If readers know that the journalists are open to public scrutiny then they are more likely to trust them. Lastly, letters to the editor create a bit of debate and controversy which is always entertaining.

Letters to the editor are not always in stark disagreement with the article. Sometimes the letter simply offer an alternative perspective, empasize a particular point, or add to the story. Here's an example from a recent article and letter:

Article from Globe and Mail

Letter to the editor printed the following day

Your assignment: write a letter to the editor of a large newspaper.
First, select a newspaper. You may choose The Montreal Gazette, The Globe and Mail, or The National Post.
Second, find an article that you have something to say about. Do not be afraid to use the first-person and draw from your experience (for example; As a bilingual quebecois, I...). Alternatively, you may just want to make an objective commentary.
Third, write a letter to the editor. It should be brief. Most newspapers ask that they do not exceed 200 words. However, write at least 100 words.
Fourth, send the letter to the editor. You may skip this step for only one reason. Newspapers insist that you include your real name and you may not feel comfortable doing so. If that is the case you may skip this step. (Bonus marks for publication)

letters@globeandmail.ca
National Post
Montreal Gazette

For a better idea of what a letter to the editor looks like, browse through the Globe and Mails on the desk or go online and browse the e-papers.

Due Date: Tuesday, November 11th, 2008 (Use your time wisely and you should be able to get a good portion of it done or even completed)