Focus Areas > Domestic Issues > Become an Advocate

Become an Advocate
As an individual, YOU can make a difference by becoming an advocate.

Once you have identified an issue of personal interest and concern, the first step to becoming an advocate is to become educated about the issue. 

• Read newspapers for varying points of view
• Contact local community agencies for their background information
• Visit websites such as the League of Women Voters and others
• Talk to family, friends and colleagues about your point of view
• Contact your legislators who can make a definitive difference

Contacting your (local and national) legislators DOES make a difference!

• Develop a clear message about your issue.
• Target your message to key elected officials and legislators.

Methods of Contact

• Personal conversation
• Telephone
• Form letter
• E-mail
• Personal letter

Personal Letter
Personal, thoughtful, well-written letters have a significant impact on lawmakers, especially when the letters are from their constituents.  When writing your legislator remember to:

• Tell them that you are a constituent (that you live in their district, you belong to their party, or that you voted for them)
• Tell them the issue/bill number
• Explain the local impact

Be clear about the action you want them to take (support/oppose the bill, etc.)