One of the best ways to get your point of view to members of Congress is through a personal letter. Elected officials pay close attention to the mail they receive because every letter represents a certain portion of their constituency. Many elected officials now have e-mail addresses. For those with access to the World-Wide Web, the Institute for First Amendment Studies' Electronic Activist provides an easy way to send e-mail to your Congressmen. The URL is http://www.buildingequality.us/ifas/activist. Whether you use the Internet or the postal system, there are certain basic rules to follow when writing to elected officials. Here are some tips:

• In the first paragraph, state your purpose for writing. Make it short and to the point. If you are writing about a certain bill, specify its number.

• Then, build your case - explain why you feel as you do. Use facts, not emotional arguments to support your position. Explain the ramifications of the matter in question.

• If you are writing in opposition to something, say so. Explain why it is wrong, and suggest alternatives.

• If you admire your legislator for a particular reason, mention it in your letter.

• Ask your legislator his or her view on the subject.

• If possible, keep your letter to one page. Make it legible. Unless you have excellent handwriting, use a word processor or typewriter.

• Be sure to include your name and complete address (even for email correspondence).

• Follow this recommended format:

  The Honorable _____________
  United States Senate
  Washington, DC 20510

  The Honorable _____________
  United States House of Representatives
  Washington, DC 20515