Opinion articles—often called "op-ed" articles—are a strong public education and advocacy vehicle. The writer is able to voice opinion and receive publicity for free. Above all, op-ed articles can help shape local or national opinion. These op-eds carry more weight and authority than letters to the editor, and it's not a difficult process to prepare one that will be accepted by your local newspaper.

World Vision offers online tools that allow you to use your postal code to locate your local newspapers and send your letter directly to them.
 
Click here to write and send an op-ed piece to your local newspaper about the issue of HIV and AIDS or see below for additional tips on writing an effective op-ed.

Tips on writing an effective op-ed piece

• Offer anecdotes: Did you recently visit World Vision’s One Life Experience? Do you know someone living with HIV? Have you worked locally or overseas in AIDS programs? Personal stories can help make your point and raise interest.
• Be straightforward: There's no room for subtlety in an op-ed piece. 600-750 words is often the limit. Short, crisp, and to-the-point sentences and paragraphs are the order of the day.
• Follow the rules. Every newspaper has guidelines on what their specific requirements are. Familiarize yourself with these guidelines and hold yourself to them.
• Make your point: Preferably in the first paragraph. And make it your own; avoid summarizing the views of others.
• Provide answers: Whatever your point of view, write persuasively. Consider the questions readers are likely to have and answer them.
• Present solutions: Wrap up by recommending fixes for the problems you identify.
• Different is good: Unexpected perspectives and quirky approaches are welcome.
• Be accessible: Provide contact info—and be available for editing, etc.—for up to 48 hours after submitting.
• Be persistent: If you are rejected, consider modifying and resubmitting your piece or forwarding it to another publication.