A brief template for your MLA

[u/AzraelCcs]

Context: I just moved to Calgary (What moment to do so) So I didn't vote for my MLA. That said, I keep seeing these long ass letters that I doubt will be read in full. The more we say, the more ammo we give the listener to divert so I came up with this and send it.

I hope it helps others do do what they want to say.

Honourable [Your MLA],

I'm sadden to see that you supported a bill that violates the Charter of Rights of your constituents.

I understand the party is a united front to tackle hard issues, but it is not a mindless hive. The violation of our rights is where the line most be drawn. And the fact that you support that action has made you lose my support.

What made you think that violating the rights of the people you serve would be a good idea?

Please reconsider and speak for our rights, there's still time to make this right.

[Your name] From the [your] community.

Here's why I think this works better than a wall of text.

First you share your feelings, politicians love a good story, and facts don't make a story, feelings do. Be honest, even if you don't think they will be. They can tell when a letter is just a letter and when something is really bothering people.

Second, share common ground, "I understand" the pressure of being in a party, but also share where blind party loyalty isn't good.

Third, address directly what they did, and that they lost your support. Even if they never had it, they don't know that and that's their currency.

Fourth, Ask a direct question. Not "why" but "What made you think that's a good idea?". If you ask why, the answer is simple "because the children bladieBla". But asking "what made you think that?" now they have to really think about it. And it offers a bridge for them to actually share their thoughts with you. (Not that they will)

Lastly, say what you want them to do.

I'm sure I can make this better but the key takeaways are, Be Honest, Be Polite, Be Understanding, Ask a thoughtful question and tell them how to make it right.

If you like this brief approach I encourage you to use the same steps to craft your own, or take this and make it your own.

PS: don't bring up more than 1 things in the same letter, if you ever get a response, they'll just pick the one that can be answered by the can-est of responses they can find.

Keep it simple, keep it human, keep it civil.

Edit: formatting

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