How do I get started? Here are the steps:

1. Choose the format that works for you. Where will you have the biggest reach?
   • It might be a personalized video shared on social media.
   • It might be a written post with a photo.
   • It might be a letter to the editor or an op-ed in your local paper (continue below for the latter).
2. Find a paper in your community using this map (note that this map likely does not include ALL local publications, so search online as well).
3. Write your piece.
   • If you need help, we have a number of experts in the environment, climate, energy, and media, who can review your drafts, think through pieces, and help with pitching. Reach out to [email protected], and (subject to volume and availability) we will connect you with an expert.
4. Reach out to the editor of the publication where you want to place this piece. Generally, you can find this information at the publication link provided in the map.
   • Here is a sample letter you can send to the editor to pitch your piece.
   • Here is a list of journalists who cover the environment in case you want to place a piece in their papers.
5. After your piece is published, send it to [email protected], and tag us on social media, so we can amplify it.

What should I write about?

Write something that is meaningful to you. If you need help, here are some thoughts:

1. Say something about yourself. How is this story connected to you, to your journey, and to the community where it will be published?
2. Talk about economics. We believe that people care about how changes in our natural world affect their family budget, communities, and neighborhood. Here are some ideas:
   Jobs gained through public investment in clean manufacturing, energy, and transportation, and jobs lost if that is taken away;
   Lower utility costs thanks to public investment in heat pumps, solar panels, weatherization, and higher costs if those are taken away;
   The costs of natural disasters, extreme weather, and resulting higher retail prices, weaker supply chains, and skyrocketing insurance;
   Higher costs to enjoy the great outdoors when National Parks close;
   Health costs resulting from environmental contamination;
   Some resources that you might find helpful: clean energy investments across the US, Democratic investments in manufacturing and energy, inflation reduction act projects, heat tracker, natural disaster risk, and more trackers.
3. Talk about morality. Sometimes a position may be right for economic but also moral reasons, and the economic argument is incomplete and dissatisfying. Poisoning the waters in environmental justice communities, causing drought and ecosystem loss are not just bad economic realities, they are also wrong.
4. Be a part of your community first, be political second. Lead by being a voice of your community, being a part of your culture. But don’t be afraid to make it clear why good things happened and who is responsible for bad things.
5. Convey a positive and hopeful message. Our planet and our health face grave threats, but you and your community have the power to bring about progress and make a better world.

Take a look at some awesome op-eds for inspiration: Clean Water in PA, Wetlands in PA, Post Hurricane in NC, and many more.

FAQs

Who can join?

Anyone.

If you believe that everyone deserves clean air and water, a stable climate, and beautiful outdoors, if you believe that we should be free from man-made natural disasters, then please write.

What are the strongest arguments I can make?

Tell your story about what clean air and water and a rich and healthy environment mean to you. The goal is to inspire and resonate with other people.

Should I argue politics?

Yes. The current Congress and administration are considering actions, from the budget reconciliation to other measures, that will have enormous implications on the health and safety of our planet. Be strategic, if it makes sense, focus on swing congressional districts, and speak up.

How long should my piece be?

The length will depend on the format, op-eds are typically 500-1000 words, videos on FB, Instagram, and TikTok are 30 to 60 seconds, Bluesky posts in threads are unlimited.

Can I do more than one?

Yes, please do. But be current and be original.

Will you help me promote my piece?

Yes, let us know when you publish, email [email protected] and tag us on social media at @votes4climate.bsky.social.

What do I do if I’m turned down by a paper?

It’s okay, keep going, you’re doing great! Ask for feedback from the paper editor, reach out to one of the talented Climate Voter editors, find additional titles.

Can I contact papers where I currently live instead of my hometown?

Yes, please do, write in any place where you have a strong connection. And be strategic. If you can, write in locations where your piece, with others, might affect an election.

Should I expect papers to pay me for my writing?

No. But you will make a difference for your country and for the planet.

How can I help Climate Voters?

If you are a writer, journalist, editor, have a dedicated social following, are good friends with editors, have access to funds for targeted and paid media, or want to otherwise contribute to this effort, please contact [email protected].