Get action alerts from ADAPT, the ARC, UCP, and other local, state, and national groups.
Attend Rallies and Protest
Hold signs, give a speech, help organize and encourage others to join.
Use social media to help spread the word.
Effective Advocacy Tips for Writing, Calling and Visiting.
Be prepared, concise, and clear. Do your homework and research information to provide facts and sources. Provide a summary and additional sources of information. If you are advocating for or against a bill, make sure you know the bill number and have detailed talking points on the pros and cons.
Tell your personal story. Provide a photo of your family member you are advocating on behalf of. Be descriptive and share personal experiences and knowledge, so others can better understand how proposed policies, laws, and issues impact the lives of individuals and families. The more personalized your plea, the more others will relate to your concerns and remember your story.
Be passionate, assertive but not aggressive. Always remain polite, respectful, and not demanding. You want others to understand the what and why of what you’re advocating for or against. Educate them in ways that help them reach conclusions on their own, instead of just supporting or opposing something. Sometimes you will only be able to reach a staff person, but remember they often are more involved and knowledgeable on the details of issues and provide summaries to others.
Follow up. Change is a process, not an event. Be sure to write personalized follow-up letters and thank yous. The idea is to build lasting relationships and connections. Offer to be a resource, provide follow-up information, participate on committees, or assist at events where you can get your message out.
Hold signs, give a speech, help organize and encourage others to join.
others can better understand how proposed policies, laws, and issues impact the lives of individuals and families. The more personalized your plea, the more others will relate to your concerns and remember your story.