by Marsha Rakestraw
Last month I was part of a small group of citizens who met with each of the state legislators in our district.
It was a valuable time to get to know them, to talk with them about a forthcoming piece of climate legislation, and to learn more about how Oregon politics work.
And now they know us better and are more likely to listen to what we have to say.
More people than ever seem to be engaged in politics and social change here in the US.
And while experts recommend meeting in person with our legislators, that’s not always possible.
Former Congressional staff member Emily Ellsworth tweeted several suggestions for getting our representatives to listen to us. One of her main tips: call them.
A New York Times article offers added evidence that calling can be one of the most effective actions and outlines what happens “when someone answers the phone at a legislator’s office.”
Emily has created a terrific pay-what-you-think-it’s-worth PDF guide called “Call the Halls: Contacting Your Representatives the Smart Way.” It includes great tips and sample scripts for calling your representatives.
It only takes a few minutes each day to call your legislators. Here are a few tips to make it easier and more effective.
- Find your legislators. Add their contact info to your phone and/or create a document with that info.
- For your federal representatives, call both their state and DC offices.
- Identify yourself as a constituent (and make sure you are).
- Be polite, succinct, and knowledgeable.
- Ask for a specific action (and make sure your legislator has the power to act on your request).
- Stick to a single issue/request.
So many people have been calling their legislators that some people can’t get through (or even leave a message) via phone. The next best bet, according to several sources, is to send a personal email (preferably through the legislator’s website form).
Get more tips for contacting your legislators here and here.
The post 5 Minute Changemaker: Call Your Legislators appeared first on Institute for Humane Education.