I’m in the process of putting together a website with a three friends of mine (one other American, one French, and one Algerian). Admittedly, we have pretty grand intentions, but hopefully not too grand.
One of the ideas I’ve had recently was a letter writing campaign, and I wanted to present it here to see if people thought it would work. Basically, what I want to do is research certain practices like, say, agricultural subsidies . Then, using the information gathered, I would write to the politicians involved in the legislation concerning said subject, presenting them with the information – though, and this is very important, not accusing them of anything – and ask them to explain their position to us.
I would post the letter on the website, as well as mail and email it to the politician. I would tell the politician that the letter is posted on the website, which gives him more incintive to respond, since there are perhaps hundreds/thousands of readers who would be waiting for a response.
It would not look good for the politician not to respond, but if he did, we would also post his response on the site.
I want to know if people think this is futile, a good idea, or flawed. If you have any suggestions, I’d appreciate them.