Grassroots Toolkit: Influencing Editorials

Back to normal view

Editorials endorsing a particular issue or piece of legislation can influence elected officials and policy makers. Editorials are written by a newspaper staff person and are considered the "voice" of the paper. You can influence editorials through an in-person meeting or by phone.

Do your homework

Research the newspaper to see if editorials on your topic have already been printed, and to make sure that their editorials are locally written. (Some newspaper chains, such as Gannett, provide editorials for local affiliates.)

Before contacting the editorial writer, research your topic with an eye to arguments from other sides. Make sure that you can explain why this issue is important to the newspaper's readers and why an editorial should be written supporting your view. This particular method of making your voice heard requires more organization than a letter to the editor or op-ed, but will allow you to cultivate a relationship with your local newspaper and may influence more readers.

Meet with the board

Send the editorial board a letter explaining why you would like to meet and what information and analysis you can provide. Follow-up with a call to set up a meeting. You can use FCNL's worksheet to draft your letter: http://www.fcnl.org/getin/resources/printer_friendly/editorial_board_ws.htm

When you meet, bring experts such as academics or local community leaders. Keep the group small- about two or three people. Your group needs to be prepared to make your case quickly and succinctly. You should leave materials with the board to provide background information.

If the board does not wish to publish an editorial, explore the possibility of one in the future or request placing an op-ed. This meeting, regardless of the outcome, is a step in building a relationship for the future.

Using the FCNL newsletter

Put the FCNL Washington Newsletter to work as an editorial board lobbying tool. FCNL will provide the newsletter for a six month free trial period to any newspaper. The articles in the newsletter are a good resource for facts and thoughtful analysis on current legislation and issues. You may send a copy to an editorial writer and then follow up with a phone call to gauge their interest. Copies may be requested from the FCNL Field Program by emailing field@fcnl.org.

Reviewed: 12/21/2006

More Grassroots Toolkit

back to top