Apr 20
Writing to Your Congressman
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We live under a representative form of government. Unfortunately, not enough of us take the time to let our representatives know how we really feel about issues that concern us. For Family Talk, here’s Dr. James Dobson.
Letters and phone calls to our local officials, representatives, and senators do make a difference, and they certainly need to hear from us. Let me offer a few ideas that may help in making your letter the most effective it can be. First, be brief and restrict each letter to one subject or one piece of legislation. This makes it easier for the person you’re writing to respond, and for their staff to organize correspondence. If the letter is about a specific bill, identify it by name and number. Second, make your letter personal. Form letters and post cards do have a place, but personal letters get more attention. Describe how the proposed bill or course of action would affect you or your family or your community. Give the essential background information as well. And third, remember that elected officials receive thousands of letters of complaint and very few positive responses.
If someone you’ve elected to serve you says or does something that you like, respond with a quick thank you note of appreciation, and by all means, remember this: democracy works best when the people make their wants and wishes known. You can find more Family Talk with Dr. James Dobson at myfamilytalk.com.
