If you don't like the way people are portrayed on a TV show or in an ad, don't just complain to your friends.

Tell the people who have the power to do something about it -- producers, networks, companies that make or the ads, or companies that make the product being advertised.

If you think young people aren't quoted enough or their stories aren't being told in the mass media, get your story to the gatekeepers.

If you think anything you see on TV or in a magazine has gone too far, TALK BACK!!!

HOW?

You can write a letter to: Correct an error made in a story Add facts that were left out Disagree with a writer' or an advertising message point of view Compliment a writer or advertiser Inform a company you won't be buying their product

One way is to write a letter to the editor of a magazine or newspaper, or to the advertising department of a TV station. Corporations take consumer opinions seriously. If you write to a company about something that bothered you about their advertising, tell them you will not be buying their product until they change their message.

A few hints for letters: limit your letter to 3-4 paragraphs keep the tone of it cool and calm one main idea in the letter one point per sentence no profanity send to the Letters Editor if it's going to a newspaper you can send it by mail, fax, or e-mail include your name, address and phone number, and name of a group if you are writing on behalf of others (anonymous letters aren't usually published)