nm.news isn’t just a platform for journalists to report the news. We also give readers space to respond and inspire others to engage.
Before submitting your letter to the editor or reader column, remember a few tips:
- Don’t be mean. It is ok to be critical and engage in debate, but be respectful. Personal attacks, unsourced allegations of criminal conduct or malfeasance are not published.
- Show your homework. Just like your teacher used to tell you, if you use someone else’s idea, give them credit. That includes sourcing data such as the number of crimes in an area or cost of eggs at the store. Plagiarism or using made up or fake news sources may prohibit you from being considered in the future.
- Keep it simple. Most readers only spend a minute or two reading a story online. That’s why we generally ask columnists and contributors to keep it under 500 words per piece.
- What next? Give readers an action item. What should they do if they are inspired by your work? Tell them where to contact city councilors before a meeting about your topic, or refer them to another source to read more.
We review each submission as it is received. Pieces most likely to be selected for publication are timely (about a topic currently in public discussion or about a recent news article), short and easy to read and inspire readers to get involved in a community issue.
What to include: Your name, your business name or neighborhood where you live (let people know you are local), and a way for us to contact you to verify your information.
Submit your piece to editor@newmexico.news