Name: Political change with pen and paper
Uploaded: 2010-04-23T08:24:00Z
Duration: 5 min 50 s
Description: Want your local politician to pay attention to an issue you care about? Send a monthly handwritten letter, says former mayor Omar Ahmad -- it's more effective than email, phone, or even writing a check. He shares four steps to writing a letter that works.

Want your local politician to pay attention to an issue you care about? Send a monthly handwritten letter, says former mayor Omar Ahmad -- it's more effective than email, phone, or even writing a check. He shares four steps to writing a letter that works.

Political change with pen and paper

A simple, handwritten letter can cut through the noise and reach elected officials in a way email or phone calls rarely do. Even top leaders set aside time each day to read a select few letters from their constituents. Consistency is key; writing once a month often results in policymakers reaching out for advice within three months. This analog approach can turn personal passion into real influence on political decisions.