Write a letter? Really? YES

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Write a letter? Really? YES

YES a letter from you matters!

Your support is needed and a well-written letter can stand out among other letters, emails and faxes received by our representatives in Government.  Your letter, along with letters from other concerned citizens, can draw attention to our problem at Ipperwash and influence public policy to return the vehicle barriers before someone is injured.  I hope this post inspires you to write your MP using some of these simple but important tips to write effectively in support our cause.

Be nice, personal and with solutions

A letter filled with angry words is likely to be thrown out as hate mail whereas a respectful and personalized note can garner empathy and understanding so the reader can better appreciate your concerns.  When you write, explain how the stolen barriers affect you, your family and friends and be sure to use personal examples to support your points. Good clear examples are useful fodder for conversation and for speeches, the “stuff” politicians need to advocate on your behalf. If letters contain good ideas in them, MPs are more likely to take those ideas forward to meetings or work them into speeches. Using your specific examples of how people are affected by the situation at Ipperwash and how simply the safety issues can be corrected will definitely help with re-installing vehicle barriers.

Brief & To the Point

Long letters that go on for pages and pages can be overlooked or discarded.  A single page, one sided letter is probably all you require to convey what needs to be said clearly and concisely without the reader loosing interest. Remember our issue is very simple, the vehicle barriers need to be replaced immediately before someone gets hurt or the sensitive ecology of the beach is damaged. Once you’ve made your point – clearly, strongly and with respect – request a reply. Ask what will be done to address this illegal activity at Ipperwash and close with something like “I look forward to your response.” Be sure to sign your name and include your return address. Most MPs will respond to letters from their own constituents.

Vehicle Barrier Replacement for SafetyReach all the right people

Your own Member of Parliament may is not the ONLY person to contact. Your concern for pedestrian and environmental safety should be a concern for any of the following members of Municipal, Provincial and Federal Governments. I suggest that address a letter to each person or minister listed below and it is a good idea to show the recipient that you have sent the letter to others. Peer pressure sometimes is needed to motivate.

If you receive a response to your letter, write back to say thank you! It costs you nothing (no postage required) and it shows you appreciate the attention paid to your letter. I don’t think MPs hear “thank you” very often and am confident they would find your letter of gratitude very meaningful and appreciated.

So now you need to put aside a few minutes and write your letter. Do your part and make sure our government representatives and community understand the safety concerns of our community at Ipperwash.