Everybody in the world has opinions around election time. But in a democracy like ours Election Season is the time for free public exchange of opinion. Journalists and people like us fill newspapers, talk shows and social media with words that help shape how our town, state and country will be for the next few years.
Since newspapers began, citizens have been writing letters of opinion for all their neighbors to read. But only in modern times is the writer required to sign their real name.
In June, 1861, “A RATEPAYER” signed a “Letter To the Editor of The Isle of Wight Observer”:
Sir – In passing a draper’s shop in High-street I found several packing boxes, &c, placed partly on the pavement and partly on the road. A friend of mine had his foot injured and was nearly thrown on his face … It is a great pity that our inspector of nuisances does not interfere [since that would be] for the good of the community, and the prevention of accidents. I am, Sir, yours respectfully, A RATEPAYER
A Ratepayer’s Letter To the Editor fits the guidelines for a good one.
First the writer gives his view of a dangerous situation in the community. Boxes are piled on a busy sidewalk.
His reason for pointing this out is that his friend was injured trying to get around the boxes.
Finally, the writer calls for action. “The inspector of nuisances” should get the shop owner to stop piling boxes in front of his store.
And, above all, this very readable LTE is brief!
Here’s a recent Letter To the Editor of the Transylvania Times. It fits the same guidelines.
In case you’re inspired now to get your opinion into print, I’m happy to tell you Election Season is already here. It’s time to write!
The Democratic Party of Transylvania County has announced their Letters to the Editor Program for 2022. Contact Ken at chepkp@icloud.com and he’ll get you started on one of our current topics — healthcare, childcare and education in our county. He can support your opinion with references.
When you email Ken, please put “Letters to the Editor” in the subject line.
I know the Transylvania Times and other local papers have a “sign your (real) name” policy, so please resist the temptation to sign it “Letter from a Farmer in Pennsylvania”. Anyway, that’s already been taken.
See you in print!