Why writing a letter to your MP matters!
Do you know that your voice and words can help to create change?
Never underestimate the power you have as a voter in Canada to make change happen. Writing a letter to your Member of Parliament (MP) is an effective and easy way to let them know you would like to see action on a certain issue. When you vote and actively engage elected officials, you strengthen Canada’s democracy.
Your MP is your representative in Canada’s Parliament. They are there to listen to your concerns on both local and global issues and can take action in the House of Commons on your behalf.
MPs have tools they can use to bring attention to a range of local, national and global issues that concern constituents, like you. This includes presenting petitions, making statements and asking questions during the question period, which occurs daily when parliament is in session.
MPs can also propose and help shape legislation, which impacts government policies and regulations towards Canada’s activities at home and abroad.
Writing a personalized and compelling letter is an effective way to get your MP’s attention and to have your concerns addressed.
It is very easy to write to your MP. Here are some effective tips
- Learn who your MP is: When writing an MP, ensure you are contacting the MP for your riding. You can find your MP’s contact information here https://www.ourcommons.ca/members/en by inputting your postal code. Let your MP know that you are a resident in their riding and include your postal code for reference.
- Write about a specific issue: Briefly outline your concerns about a key issue by making 2-3 specific points. Provide some evidence or examples to support your concerns to convey why the issue deserves attention. You can draw on your personal knowledge and experience and/or include a link to a media article or website to support your concerns.
- Make a clear request: Importantly, make a clear request to your MP and outline actions you would like your MP to take to address an issue. For example, you could request they forward your concerns to a relevant Minister or ask them to raise awareness via a statement in the House.
- Say why you care about the issue: Give your MP an idea why an issue is of concern to you personally. Writing in a heartfelt way will make your letter stand out among the many letters, emails and phone calls that your MP may receive on a daily basis.
- Be polite and respectful: Tone is important. Always remember to be respectful in your communication, even if you learn that your MP disagrees with your viewpoint. Alternatively, acknowledge any action that your MP has already taken to address your concerns and those of other constituents.
- If you receive a response, write back to thank your MP: Write back to thank your MP if you receive a response to your letter. In your thank you note, you can remind your MP about your requests and thank them for any action they may have taken to address your concerns.
If you have any questions or need support to write to your MP you can contact us directly at comms@savethechildren.ca
By: Samiera Zafar, Policy & Advocacy Advisor