Standing up for what you believe is harder than it looks. And then once you decide to try to impact your issue of choice, where do you even begin?
A lot of people who have strong views on issues they care about in their towns, cities, states and countries, but don’t know where to start.
This guide of the do’s and don’ts of advocacy will give everyone the tips and tricks they need to be a successful advocate. For people based in the US, this guide will help you know how to effectively engage your elected officials to make sure they know what issues are important to their constituents.
DO find your passion. Advocacy is hard work, so the issue you choose to take action on should be one that’s close to your heart and will impact you and fellow community members if something doesn’t change.
DON’T bring too many issues to your advocacy work. Have a clear, simple message or ask for each meeting, communication, or conversation. That’s the best way to get your lawmaker’s and your community’s attention.
DO join a coalition. Find others who are also trying to make change on the issue you are, and find ways to work together and amplify each other’s efforts. Here’s just a few ideas: Passionate about the climate crisis? Check out local 350.org chapters around the world. Interested in civic space? Look into the ACLU’s groups. There’s countless options out there.
DO learn who are the decision-makers for the issue you want to change. It might be your town’s mayor, your county executive, or the member of Congress for your district or state. Once you identify this person or people, learn all that you can about their voting record, their interests and specialities.
DON’T waste people’s time if they aren’t able to make change on the issue you’re advocating on. You will waste time, resources, and momentum. Be sure you hone in on the right audience and stay focused on them.
DO your homework. Having compelling statistics, real-life examples of how this issue is bad, and practical solutions to propose will help you make your case.
DON’T be afraid to engage changemakers from the other side of the aisle. No matter where they are on the political spectrum, if a lawmaker seems open to hearing your case, take them up on it.
DO be sure to try to get in-person time with the lawmaker who is best positioned to affect change on the issue you’re advocating on. Be friendly to their staff, and if you do get time with the lawmaker, be prepared. Make a concise argument and be open to hearing their point of view.
DO pay attention to the lawmaker’s public schedule. If you can’t get formal time with them at their office, attend town hall sessions or other events where you know they will be speaking.
At the end of the day, advocacy is hard work. It takes thoughtfulness, diligence, determination, and creativity. But it’s often worth it, if you can cause real change in your community.
This series is part of Global Citizen’s “Take Action Toolkit” where we share tips and tricks for raising your voice and making it heard on the issues you care about. Check it out!