Grassroots Advocacy Month 2026 LTE Campaign: Protect the Merit-Based Civil Service

Help us raise awareness and build support for the Saving the Civil Service Act (H.R. 492/S. 134) by participating in NARFE's Letter to the Editor (LTE) Campaign.

A letter to the editor is one of the most effective ways to educate your community and encourage lawmakers to support policies that protect the federal workforce. By sharing your perspective, you help neighbors, local leaders, and Members of Congress understand why preserving a nonpartisan, merit-based civil service is essential to effective government and the services Americans rely on every day.

This year's Grassroots Advocacy Month theme is "We Are All Family." Our federal family is strongest when we share our stories and stand together. Whether you're a current federal employee, retiree, survivor, or supporter of public service, your voice can help others understand the importance of protecting a professional civil service that serves every American.

Be sure to personalize your letter. Explain why public service matters to you, how a merit-based workforce benefits your community, and why Congress should support the Saving the Civil Service Act. Personal stories leave a lasting impression and help lawmakers see the real people behind the legislation.

Together, we can protect the integrity of the federal workforce, strengthen public trust in government, and ensure that the civil service continues to serve the American people with professionalism and excellence.

Get started by using our sample letter below, and be sure to review our Letter to the Editor Guide for tips on writing and submitting your letter.

When our family shares its story, our communities—and our lawmakers—listen.