Many centuries ago, a writer once stated that the pen is mightier than the sword. Many revolutions have begun with a simple document, scrolled with quills on parchment paper. Of course, modern times have given way to e-mail. Sure, e-mail is fast and convenient. However, it's better to send a letter than an e-mail. For starters, e-mails could easily be deleted and would often get replied with a form letter on their end. One could have campaigns to send things like nuts and hair clippings, but we don't have enough time to collect all of that. I feel a letter campaign is the only effective means in Phase One of Revolution 11, which is an ongoing phase until the campaign is over.
Now, if you're not fortunate enough to nearly get ran over by a network executive to get your point across, here are a few tips on how to compose a letter supporting Revolution 11. William "Chris" Maune, one of the major moderators over that the big board, has been a soldier in this revolution for years, and here are the words he said to guide you. Even though Chris is currently tending with personal matters on the other side of the screen, I know he'd be with us in spirit.
1) Be Personal
A form letter is certainly better than nothing, but writing a letter personally shows that you've put in more time, thought, and care into the issue. Some ideas for letters would include one or more of the following:
- why you started watching Toonami
- why you still watch Toonami
- what Toonami means to you.
2) Be Nice and Respectful
No one is going to pay attention to a hostile rant, especially someone who is unreasonable in the first place. Basically, do not curse and put aside any personal feelings you have against the person you are writing to and focus on the problem you are writing about. This is not the time to bash Cartoon Network. Be friendly and write in a positive tone, you want the people you are writing to working with you on your goals.
3) Focus on the Main Issues
It's a lot easier to get your point across if you are discussing one specific thing instead of the numerous issues you may have.
However, some fans might address smaller issues such as disliking a certain show, thinking Toonami should get a certain show, Toonami should show more uncut programming, Toonami should show more anime, Toonami should show less anime, etc. This is not the time to bring these issues up. If we all focus on the main issues, there is a greater chance our voices will be heard.
Finally, Toonami (and Cartoon Network) is not for kids, teenagers, nor adults; it is for everyone. Every fan, from 4 to 104 should send This does not mean these people should not send letters because they are not perfectly written. Cartoon Network knows they have many fans young and old. As long as letters are written respectfully and make a point, they will be great.
It's time that all the fans and fansites unite with one voice. One sign, one purpose, one voice. It's time for all of us to put aside differences and create one voice to save perhaps the best thing to ever appear on television screens before it becomes a shell of its former self. It's time for all of us to be heard. It's time for all of us to have our presence felt.
It's time for a revolution. One final fight. The stakes have never been higher. Here's your ammo. If you need help, feel free to e-mail me.
This is our fight. Are you ready?
*end transmission*
Jeff Harris,
Creator/Webmaster/Guru,
The X Bridge and Thoughtnami.
