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.

Sign up for Otherwords

Latest Work

One Nation, Under the Gun

Why do so many Americans believe that to properly protect ourselves today, we need guns?

Letters to the Editor: Readers Respond to Kaul’s Departure, Part II

The columnist’s devoted readers describe his impact on their lives and urge him to write again when his health improves.

Shell-shocked Again, this Time because of Aurora

For the victims of Colorado’s recent tragedy, it’s time we get our values straight and face the true costs of our trigger-happy culture.

Letters to the Editor: Readers Respond to Kaul’s Departure

We’ve heard from dozens of readers as far away as Poland but hundreds of emails were probably lost.

The Lineup: Week of July 23-29, 2012

Donald Kaul explains his indefinite hiatus in his own words.

Real Nowhere Men (and Women)

Nowhereisland is about living kindly, governing gently, and not taking oneself too seriously.

Green Scissors for Congress

The United States can’t afford giveaways for mining and oil companies anymore.

The African-American Swing State

Obama’s re-election may require a repeat of the record rate of Black turnout in 2008.

Lifesaving Law

Steve Gepner’s story illustrates the importance of one of the Affordable Care Act’s key provisions.

My Broken Heart

I have to figure out whether I want to spend my last years writing about this new country.

Donald Kaul’s Breather

With all that ink running in his veins, no stupid heart attack could interfere with a deadline.

Tomato Tampering

Scientists have figured out a way to genetically engineer the flavor back into industrial tomatoes that taste no better than their shipping cartons.

Healing Mother Nature’s Wounds

Our health is at stake.

Donald Kaul Signs Off

Holding your nose helps when you write about politics.

Romney Passes the Buck

If he owned Bain Capital, lock, stock and barrel, was its chairman, CEO, and president, why isn’t he responsible for whatever the company did?

The Lineup: Week of July 16-22, 2012

Donald Kaul weighs in on New York City’s pending ban on supersized drinks.

Economic Rapture Might Be around the Corner

If the deficit disappears, our economic nightmare might finally come to an end.

We Can’t Put a Price on Nature

The greenwashed economy threatens our ability to pursue sustainable development.

The ‘Freedom’ to Refuse Health Insurance

Raise your hand if you don’t want any health insurance.

A New Kind of Scrutiny on the Campaign Trail

Undercover liars with cameras shouldn’t get to destroy political candidates with impunity.