Unlocking the Power of the OpEd: Insights from Karina Quintans

On January 6, 2025, a meeting was held featuring Karina Quintans, a freelance writer and documentary photographer known for her compelling op-eds, most notably her piece demanding progress on peace in Gaza. The meeting was rich in discussions on the power of the op-ed as a tool for advocacy, the nuances of writing for different audiences, and the importance of choosing words carefully, especially when dealing with sensitive topics. This blog post aims to distill the key points from that meeting into actionable guidance for aspiring op-ed writers.

Understanding the OpEd

An op-ed, short for ‘opposite the editorial page’, is a powerful platform for sharing personal opinions and narratives on pressing issues. It’s a tool that can shape public discourse, influence policy, and inspire social change. As Karina Quintans demonstrates, a well-written op-ed is not just an opinion piece; it’s a carefully crafted argument that relies on personal insight, factual support, and a deep understanding of the target audience.

Writing for Different Audiences

As Quintans explained during the meeting, ‘Every newspaper has a different audience – it’s best to write differently for different audience.’ This is a crucial point for any writer to understand. Knowing your audience is key to crafting a message that resonates. It can determine the tone, language, and even the structure of your op-ed. For instance, Quintans mentioned that she received a good response from her op-ed because she related it to her experiences and unique perspectives, which included living in the Middle East.

The Power of Language

The meeting also delved into the importance of language, particularly when discussing controversial topics. Quintans emphasized the need to avoid ‘trigger words’ that might alienate readers. Instead, she encouraged writers to ‘appeal to people’s humanity.’ This doesn’t mean watering down the message, but rather finding a way to communicate it that engages rather than alienates the audience.

Privacy Considerations

While personal perspectives can add depth and credibility to an op-ed, Quintans also pointed out that privacy can be a concern for some writers. For example, one attendee named Camille expressed hesitation about publishing her name and location due to fear of backlash. In such situations, Quintans suggested using softer language for safety and to appeal to a wider audience.

Next Steps

Writing an op-ed is an act of courage. It’s about standing up for what you believe in, even if it means going against the grain. While it can be daunting, the insights shared during this meeting offer valuable guidance for anyone looking to take on the challenge. So, whether you’re an experienced writer or someone just starting out, consider using your pen (or keyboard) to shape the discourse on an issue you care about. Your voice matters.

Freedom Advocacy Network

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