Write to any elected official: Although this 2torial uses the US House and Senate as examples, you should voice your opinion to any official that governs your life, regardless of your country or the level of the politician.

Coordinate your efforts. If you're concerned about a specific issue, contact a local or national NGO (non-govermental organization)--they often lead letter writing campaigns when certain bills come up for vote. They'll tell you when a bill is up for a vote, and you can send your letter in sent along with all the of other letters of the letter writing campaign.

2torial #0818: Learn2 Write to your Congressperson (Continued) Draft your letter Now take a moment to consider exactly what you want to say. You'll want to state clearly what issue concerns you and what your stand is. You'll also need to devote at least a couple of sentences to arguing your point, so sit back and consider why you feel so strongly about this particular problem. You'll begin, of course, with a greeting. If you're writing a Representative, address him or him as Mr. or Ms. Are you writing a Senator? Begin with "Dear Senator," followed by their surname.   Explain in your very first sentence what your concern is. If you're writing about a specific bill, refer to it by name or number (e.g., House Bill _____), if you know it. Be sure to address only one concern in a given letter. You can always write again next week on a different matter.   Then argue your point. Your Congressperson will be especially interested in learning about your community and how the proposed legislation will affect it. Be as specific as possible, and provide examples that support your assertions.   If you didn't include your name and address at the top of the letter, put them under signature. Your zip code is essential--it informs your Congressperson that you live in their district. Step 3