It is important to remember that constituent feedback is a valued and necessary part of the democratic process. The most effective advocacy involves positive, ongoing relationships. There are also several important factors to consider for successful advocacy with legislative outreach. The first is to determine the goal you wish to achieve with your advocacy. This should be a distinct problem for your community or organization that can only (or most effectively) be solved by passing legislation in your state. You should use the conversations you have had with stakeholders to identify the top one to three most important issues for your organization, and make sure that the issues can be addressed by a change in state law. The next step is to identify the proper target of your advocacy efforts. You will also have to determine who you are representing which will shape the type of message you present. Once you have identified your audience and the message you wish to convey, there are several ways to advocate with government officials and their staff. These methods can include:
- A face-to-face meeting with lawmaker(s) and staff
- Most effective when you have a group of advocates with strong and memorable testimonies to make your voices heard and convey the issue effectively.
- Virtual meetings or engagement
- This method is effective if you have limited time and resources to gather your advocates in-person.
- A community event or visit to your organization.
- Highly effective if the elected official is outside of session or has more time on their calendar, creates a long-lasting memory and strengthens a relationship.
- Sending emails or writing letters
- An effective way to show the support behind your issue if you have a large number of supporters who want their voice to be heard.
- Making phone calls
- Can also be an effective way to show the support behind your issue if you have a large number of supporters, and can add a sense of urgency if calls are being made on the day of an important vote regarding your issue.
Use the guiding questions below to determine your legislative outreach approach.
- What is the goal of your advocacy? Some common goals may include: passing a specific piece of legislation, strengthening a relationship with a new legislator, or changing the heart or mind of a legislator.
- Who is the target of your advocacy? What are they motivated by? How long have they been in office
- Who are you representing with your outreach? What is your key message?
- How will you accomplish your legislative priorities? Which outreach method will be most effective for your legislative outreach? Why?
Resources
View the Organizing and Advocacy Playbook as a PDF
Background Information
Advocacy Action Plan Phase-Learning
Advocacy Action Plan Phase-Planning
Advocacy Action Plan Phase-Implementation
Advocacy Action Plan Phase-Execution
Advocacy Action Plan Phase-Reflection