Tips for writing a Letter to the Editor
1) Letters to the Editor should be no more than 250 words.
2) Always include your full name, city and a phone number where you can be reached. The paper will not print your phone number but they will use it to verify the authenticity of your letter.
SAMPLE LETTERS
Sample Letter #1
Dear Editor,
The death penalty is a failed public policy that wastes taxpayer’s money. I would rather see our states valuable tax dollars be used on services that will help crime victims and keep our streets safe. The death penalty accomplishes neither. We already have a sentence of Life Without Parole for people who commit heinous crimes. This sentence ensures that violent offenders will be taken off the streets for good, but also means that if a mistake is made and an innocent person is convicted, the state is able to correct the problem. Wisconsin is better off without the death penalty.
Sincerely,
John Doe
Madison, WI
555-444-7777
Sample Letter #2
Dear Editor,
As a person who is deeply religious, I am horrified at the idea that Wisconsin may seek to reintroduce the death penalty. My religion has taught me that God calls us to a high and often difficult standard of love, forgiveness and justice that is rooted not in retribution but rather in redemption and restoration. The death penalty denies the sacredness of human life and I believe that it will never be the solution to violence in our society. The death penalty system is inequitable and unfair in its implementation. It is racist, predisposed to executing the poor and destitute among us. It is more costly than life imprisonment. Thus, it drains society's resources that could be used for the promotion of authentic justice and true healing. As we invest in vengeance in this society, we divest ourselves of compassion. As we support retribution, we neglect restorative justice. We cannot be a community of compassion and unity if we choose to destroy one another. And we should not allow the state to do it for us. I hope that Wisconsin residents join me in rejecting the death penalty on November 4th.
Sincerely,
Jane Doe
Kenosha, WI
666-444-7777
