Write a letter to the editor or an opinion piece for your local newspaper about the Welcoming Michigan initiative. Your letter can focus on the initiative itself or an activity associated with the initiative. You could also write a letter in response to an article in the paper that illustrates how immigrants are or aren’t welcomed in your community.
Most newspapers have guidelines for how to direct your letter or opinion piece, and a general word limit (usually, they range from 100 to 150 words). Newspapers will not print anonymous letters so be sure to include your full name, address, and phone number. Most newspapers only print your name and city as part of your letter, but they usually call you to verify that you indeed wrote the letter that was submitted. Most papers will not print your letter if it was already printed in another publication.
Here are some Suggested Talking Points:
• Our country has a proud tradition of welcoming immigrants. We live up to our most fundamental values when we welcome newcomers into our communities.
• Immigrants have been integral to our history and continue to be central to our economy. Immigrants feed the state of Michigan.
• People come to Michigan to work and build a new life for their families. Immigrants are our community members. Immigrants want the same things that everyone else wants: a good job, a good education system for our children, and a better future.
