How to Counter a Newspaper Editorial You Disagree With

Editorial pages reflect the views of the community or the publication.

When you read an editorial that offends you or seems less than true, you can respond with a counter editorial, presenting a strong opposing view. A counter editorial discusses a previously published editorial, showing how the original letter failed to prove a point or offering counter evidence to show errors in the original editorial. By writing a strong, well-researched counter editorial, you can add your own voice and your own point of view to the larger discussion regarding the topic of the offending article.

Instructions

1. Read the article with which you disagree and note the specific points you believe are untrue, hyperbolic or misleading. Study the way the original author constructed his argument and ask yourself if he effectively proved his point or if the argument is not well supported. Use this information as a guide for your editorial.

2. Research the information you noted from the original article, looking for new information, correct statistics or alternate points that disagree with the author’s original editorial. Note any specific sources you use, especially if you located statistics or research studies that disprove the original editorial.

3. Work swiftly, as an editor is unlikely to publish a counter editorial too long after the original editorial was printed. Try to have your counter editorial prepared and sent within 24 hours of the release of the original story.

4. Review the contribution restrictions for the publication that originally printed the offending editorial. Determine the length restrictions and submission guidelines. Note the physical address or email address the publication prefers you to use when sending an editorial.

5. Write your counter editorial, noting the reasons you disagreed with the original editorial. Cite the studies or statistics you use by noting the name of the organization that released the study. You want readers to read your editorial and have a quick reference to the supporting material that supports your case.

6. Sign your letter and include your contact information, including your home address, home phone number, cell phone number and email address. The publication will only publish your name, but the additional information is helpful if the editor needs to contact you regarding your letter. Send your letter to the physical address or email address of the publication.

7. Read the publication each day, looking for your letter, and check your email daily, in the event the editor needs to get in touch with you. If you do not see your letter printed after a few days, and if the editor does not contact you, call the publication and speak to the editor in charge of the editorials section. Be respectful, but inquire about your letter and offer to resend it if she did not receive a copy.

References

• IDA USA: How to Make the News
• The University of Kansas; Preparing Guest Columns and Editorials; Chris Hampton