Description
For this assignment, write a persuasive letter to someone in your local area who cares about diplomacy and global events to bring attention to something important that you’ve discovered about IR during our eight weeks of class. It could be a businessperson, your Major or Governor, or even someone who is running an NGO in your town or state. Be creative. Think about what has made you wonder, “whaaaat?” during the course and provide a substantiated solution to the problem. Choose a topic that is relevant to this course. (A hot-button political issue might be enticing, but consider whether it’s actually related to international relations).
You don’t need to provide your return address for the assignment, but you’ll need to include it if you decide to send your letter. Provide the name, position, and mailing address of the person you have selected to write. Then write a four-paragraph (no more than two double-spaced pages, including references) letter using this format:
Paragraph 1: introduce yourself and explain the problem;
Paragraph 2: explain the relevant history of the problem (cite your sources);
Paragraph 3: explain any international relations concepts and theories related to the problem (cite your sources and relate to course readings); and,
Paragraph 4: propose possible solutions and explain what you want this person to do (cite your sources). To make your letter actionable and effective, think about what the reader can do right away to make change. For example, if your recommendation is for a governor to work with an NGO, name a specific NGO that the governor can call.
Your letter should have a professional tone and look and follow standard letter format. Add legitimacy to your claims by providing citations using the Chicago 16th Author-Date style and include a list of your references (required). Use 12 pt. font Times New Roman font and 1-inch margins. Include your last name in your file name and upload your work in a .doc or .docx file by Sunday of week 8. A template is attached for your convenience. See also https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/653/01/
It is up to you whether or not you send the letter, but you are encouraged to do so. Civic engagement is crucial in democratic societies.
