Letters to the Editor

 Read recent Letters to the Editor.

The Channels recognizes its position on campus as a medium for free expression and community opinion. The Channels letter section will be used as an ongoing public forum serving the interests of campus individuals or organizations. Therefore, publication of letters to the editor is conducted in as fair and responsible a manner as possible.

The Channels accepts all letters addressed to the editor but reserves the right to determine the content of its publication, including letters. Any person other than staff members of The Channels may submit a letter. The decision to publish a letter shall not be based on the letter’s agreement with The Channels editorial positions but rather on criteria detailed below, to be determined by the opinion editor, the editor-in-chief or the editorial board.

Submission requirements:

To be considered for publication in The Channels, letters should:

• Be exclusive and sent only to The Channels. We do not publish open letters or those addressed to a third-party.
• Not exceed 350 words.
• Include the writer’s first and last name, address and telephone number. Only the writer’s name will be published with the letter. Pen names on letters will not be accepted.
  • If the letter is from a student, the student’s major, year in college or any other significant identification, such as a student leadership position, should be included. 
  • If the writer is representing a group or club, it should be noted. If the letter purports to express a position of a club or other student organization, it should be signed by its president.
• Not contain attachments, such as fliers, photos or other media files.
• Not contain personal attacks or unsubstantiated facts. If referencing statistics, dollar figures, or other factual information, please attribute the source within your letter.

Selection process and timeline for publication:
The Channels reserves the right to publish or reject submitted letters. All letters are subject to editing and abridgment.

• We do not publish more than one letter by a single writer within a 30-day period.
• Please allow up to seven business days for your letter to undergo The Channels’ editorial review process. Writers will be notified of the editor’s decision within a week. 

How to submit your letter

Letters may be submitted by email or regular mail. Letters via regular mail should also be signed.

Letters via e-mail

Send e-mail letters to [email protected]. Do not send attachments; they will not be read.

Letters via regular mail

Letters should be mailed to:

Letters to the Editor: The Channels

Santa Barbara City College
721 Cliff Drive
Santa Barbara, CA 93109