How to Craft Op-Eds, Letters to the Editor and Other Opinion and Advocacy Pieces

Most of us can remember a time when hearing or reading someone’s story changed our minds or opinion(s). In this class, we will examine how to use or advance your writing skills in order to advocate for social equity, public policy or to broaden the public understanding of a local or national issue. In addition to opinion writing, we will learn how to find messaging partners. We will also learn how to communicate our message in clear, jargon-free language. Also, we will build skills in weaving relevant data or research into the narrative to support our argument and inform our readers while keeping them engaged in the story. The class is suitable for anyone, including those who volunteer or work for non-profits or local organizations. The session include discussion and short, optional writing exercises.