Advocacy groups are always asking supporters to call and write legislators on important issues. However, sometimes it’s hard to know how to start and what to write. Emotion has its place but ranting is not usually taken seriously. The average person (myself included) may not have in depth knowledge of the issue at hand, much less the history behind it.

So I thought I would put together a series of sample emails that can help anyone struggling to write an advocacy email.

Most importantly of course is to write and /or make that call!

My email was sent to Wyoming Senator Wendy Schuler (Wendy.Schuler@wyoleg.govl). She is co-chair of the Travel, Recreation, Wildlife and Cultural Resources (TRW)  which will determine whether to sponsor the proposed legislation put forth by the Predator working group.

Step one: Do a little research if you want to personalize the letter/ email.

I found an informative article that suggested Senator Schuler might be independent minded enough to stand up against ranching interests and gun lobbyists. I decided to focus on her traditional values and dislike of divisive rhetoric.

Step two: State the reason you’re writing. Compliments optional.

I italicized my actual email below.

Dear Senator Schuler,

I am heartened to hear that you, a fifth-generation Wyomingite, is playing a key role in new legislation for wolf management on Wyoming. You truly understand Wyoming culture and values, which I believe is ultimately ethical and fair.

Step three: Get personal. How did you get involved and why do you care about this issue? I decided to highlight my connection with Wyoming residents since they are important to her.

After the Cody Roberts incident, I made contact with many Wyoming residents. In all honesty, many of the”conversations” were brutal. I was called a number of unpleasant names and told to butt out of Wyoming’s business.

Step four: Highlight consequences of not taking your preferred action. I skipped that but in this case, you can mention things like hurting tourism, etc.. This would also be a good point to cite and link to supporting evidence. I cited excerpts from actual social conversations to show that her Wyoming constituents do NOT condone cruelty, even against wolves.

At the same time, I came across Wyoming residents who epitomized the good side of “cowboy ethics” which I want to share with you and others working to move forward.

From the mouths of real Wyoming residents:

“The saddest part of it all is no one is more upset by the Wyoming incident than real hunters and trappers. We understand how much that set us all back. We do understand the hatred some have for the animal that would lead to that kind of act but we don’t condone it.” – JB, Wyoming

“We might have a little cowboy fun every now and then but we still have ethics and morals.” – TA, Wyoming

“…while I do agree with eliminating wolves outside of the TGMA, I do not condone cruelty or prolonging the death of any animal.” – SM, Wyoming

Step five: Be as clear as possible in terms of what you want them to do. I was too lazy to get into too much detail. However in future letters, I want to add that banning snowmobile killings should still be in discussion.

In this divisive political climate, I applaud those like you who urge for compromise and reaching across the divide. I hope you will use your influence to create better wildlife management policies that shows Wyoming can manage its wolves and other wildlife without federal intervention. 

For further reading:

Dear residents of Wyoming, part 2

Respectfully,