The Letters to the Editor section of the Harvard Press has always been one of the liveliest and most valued parts of the paper. It’s where neighbors speak directly to neighbors, sharing opinions, concerns, and sometimes disagreements about the issues that shape our town. We view the letters page as a cornerstone of healthy local democracy.
To preserve that spirit while keeping debate fair, respectful, and accurate, the Press has updated its letters policy with guidance from our Community Advisory Board. The changes are not dramatic departures from past practice. Rather, they sharpen our expectations in two important areas: (1) clarity about facts, and (2) responsibility for opinions. With Town Meeting and a special election only weeks away, we thought this would be a good time to explain the changes.
First, facts need sources. If a letter cites a statistic, a public statement, or an allegation about an individual or organization, it should include a credible reference. If a claim cannot be verified we will not publish it. This ensures that our pages do not inadvertently spread misinformation.
Second, letter writers should own their opinions. Strong viewpoints are welcome—indeed, essential—but they must be presented as personal beliefs, not as universal truths. Simple phrasing such as “I believe” or “From my experience” or “In my opinion” makes clear what statements are verifiable facts versus the writer’s view. And beware of the editorial “we”; when you use it, be clear on whose behalf you are speaking.
The policy also reiterates some long-standing rules: no personal attacks, no defamation, no anonymous letters, and a word limit to keep space open for multiple voices. We will also continue our practice of limiting one letter per writer per week to encourage diversity of perspectives.
These revisions are not about narrowing discussion but are meant to protect and encourage lively discourse. When readers can trust that letters are grounded in verifiable fact and written in good faith, the entire community benefits. The letters page remains a forum where disagreement is welcome, built on a foundation of civility and credibility.
We invite you to read the full updated policy printed below and, more importantly, to keep writing. Your letters keep the Press connected to the community it serves and remind us that this newspaper belongs to all of us.
Letters to the Editor policy
The Harvard Press welcomes letters that contribute to respectful and informed public dialogue. To help us maintain fairness, accuracy, and civility, please follow these guidelines:
Original work only. Letters must be the original work of the author. Do not submit letters written by others or content copied from other sources.
Length. Letters must be no more than 350 words, including signatures. Longer letters may be edited for space. Exceptions may be made at the editor’s discretion.
Opinion is welcome—but label it. Clearly distinguish opinion from fact. Use phrasing such as “I believe,” “In my view,” or “From my experience” to clarify your perspective.
- Avoid hearsay, secondhand information, or unverified claims.
- When you cite a fact (e.g., statistics, public statements, government actions, or legal matters), please provide a source; we will challenge claims that lack attribution.
- Letters making factual claims or accusations about individuals or organizations must include verifiable evidence.
Submission details.
- Via email: editor@harvardpress.net
- Via mail: Editor, The Harvard Press, P.O. Box 1, Harvard, MA 01451
- Deadline: Tuesday at 5 p.m. for inclusion in that week’s edition.
No personal attacks or defamation. Letters may criticize policies or public figures, but attacks on character, inflammatory language, or unsubstantiated allegations will not be published.
- Letters that may be construed as libelous—i.e., false statements that could harm someone’s reputation—will be rejected or edited.
Verification. All letters must include the writer’s name, address, and a phone number or email. House numbers and phone numbers are for verification only and will not be published. Anonymous letters will not be published. One letter per person per week. To encourage a diversity of views, we publish no more than one letter per person per week.
Group signatures. Letters must be signed by individuals. Group names are not accepted as signatures, though they may be mentioned in the letter’s body. Up to four individuals may sign a letter on behalf of a group; all must provide contact information.
Election-related letters. We do not publish endorsement letters in the edition immediately before an election. The number of endorsement letters may be limited due to space, but we will strive to present a balanced range of views.
