OtherWords

OtherWords is a free, non-profit editorial service published by the Institute for Policy Studies. Each week, OtherWords distributes a batch of publication-ready op-eds, along with a cartoon, to thousands of readers — including hundreds of editors of small and medium-sized newspapers. Each year, these op-eds appear thousands of times in local newspapers throughout the country, as well as in a growing number of online outlets. We believe that strong social movements need informed citizens, and that people learn best from conversations in their own communities — neighbor-to-neighbor. But between a consolidated, corporate-controlled mass media and a deafening social media echo chamber, it’s gotten harder than ever to have these conversations, especially in smaller communities with few local media options.

Through OtherWords, we’re able to provide millions of readers in America’s heartland with intelligent commentary on a range of progressive causes — on climate, inequality, war and peace, the movements for race and gender justice, and beyond. Through the trusted local papers that use our service, we reach readers in red, blue, and purple states alike with well-written, timely commentaries on the national issues that affect their lives. To read our work or get information about publishing it in your community, check out OtherWords.org.

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Latest Work

Outrage in Oregon

Taking over a federal building at the point of a rifle gives protest a bad name.

The GOP Candidates Know Nothing about Syria

Ending this imbroglio requires robust diplomacy.

Enstrictly Speaking, 2016 Could Be a Trailrazer

Trumpalist isn’t a word, at least not yet.

Congress has created an average of 50 new crimes per year for the past decade.

Not 50 new laws. Fifty new crimes. That’s criminal.

A Green and Dirty Gift

The GOP-led Congress rushed to help the Obama administration meet U.S. commitments under the Paris climate deal.

Working Until It’s Time for Your Grave

Like many Americans, my mom has no retirement savings.

Don’t Be a Fossil-Foolish Investor

The purely financial case for ditching oil, gas, and coal is getting stronger.

What the Red Cup Controversy Really Says about Christmas in America

What has modern American culture turned Christmas into?

Buy Today, Kill Tomorrow

Suspected terrorists can buy guns legally in the United States — and that’s how the NRA wants it.

A Big Fat Radioactive Lie

Billionaires are hyping nuclear power as a magic cure for climate change.

Why Justin Trudeau Makes Me Jealous of Canada

The new prime minister is championing inclusivity and tolerance.

Big Oil Can’t Go On Like This

The industry is scaling back to keep investors happy.

Is Denmark’s Democratic Socialism a Realistic Model for the U.S.?

Bernie Sanders’ presidential bid is putting Denmark on the map.

Instead of Pardoning a Turkey, Obama Should Free This Man

This year, the president should extend some Thanksgiving clemency to human beings — starting with Leonard Peltier.

Setting a Legal Precedent for Climate Criminals

The woes of Fossil fuel executives like former coal CEO Don Blankenship might make it easier to mobilize in the fight against climate change.

What Clinton Got Wrong About Snowden

The former secretary of state attacked the NSA whistleblower without bothering to get her facts straight.

The Great Pumpkin Shortage Is Coming

Spooky weather patterns are disrupting specialty crops.

The Sad Fate of America’s Whistleblowers

History may smile on these guardians of the public trust, but during their lifetimes they remain outcasts.

The Impeccable Timing of ‘This Changes Everything’

The new film’s creators aim to spark conversations about global warming.

U.S. Lawmakers Quick to Spurn Pope After His Plea to Protect Climate

The Boehner-led House passed an anti-environmental bill right after the pope urged Congress to protect nature.