Hey, friends. Jake, Staff Writer for Convention of States, here.
I am writing to you today with an urgent request.
Many of our COS grassroots are master storytellers and experts at COS messaging. You know the ins and outs of Convention of States like the back of your hand. You know how the process works, how to debunk the most common myths about COS, and how to pitch this forgotten constitutional provision to uninformed audiences. You're bona fide COS connoisseurs! And that’s why Matt May, my fellow COS staff writer, and I are proud to call on you to help us get the word out about the solution as big as the problem.
Letters to the editor are a short (usually around 150-200 words) but effective way to reach new audiences with the COS message. Put your writing skills and Article V expertise to the test when you pen a sample letter to the editor for us, and you may be featured as one of our top five competition winners!
Here’s what we’re looking for:
While it may be tempting to stick to COS talking points, letters to the editor are much more effective when they’re state- or local-specific. Addressing topics relevant to your audience enhances the effectiveness of your message. After all, a cookie-cutter approach won't catch anyone's attention! We’re calling on you to be as creative as possible — while also, of course, staying on message.
And speaking of the message, while we strongly encourage you to make your letter original, it must also align with the three COS subject areas — limits on federal spending, power, and terms of office — or contribute to our overall goal of promoting self-governance.
Your fellow activists nationwide should be able to take the basic outline of what you write and reapply it to relevant issues in their respective states. Remember, your submission must be concise – 200 words or less – so make sure to keep the message central!
Submit an entry here!
We’re always searching for new ways to reach people with the hope of Convention of States, and this is one of the best ways you can help us do that. Plus, our finalists’ entries will be used as templates for phase two of the competition (more details on that later)! I can’t tell you everything yet, but believe me, we’re working towards something huge, and you won’t want to miss it.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick up a pen, and start writing! All submissions are due by April 24, and we’ll announce our winners on May 1.
Happy writing!
Submit your entry here!
