Involving Congregations in Advocacy Now (ICAN) Introduction My Faith and Advocacy The How-tos of Advocacy How to bring advocacy to my congregation Resources Miscellaneous Activities and Handouts

Involving Congregations in Advocacy Now

• Introduction to Advocacy
• ELCA Washington Office: History
• The Mission Statement
• What is an Advocate?
• Ways to Influence Public Policy
• How to Visit a Legislator
• Make Your Letters Count
• How to Write a Letter to the Editor
• Tips on Telephoning Your Legislators
• "I can't get to see my legislator, now what?"
• Attending a Town Meeting
• Sample Role Play I: Social Concerns Committee
• Sample Role Play II: State Senator and Legislative Assistant
• Tough Questions Role Play

Attending a Town Meeting

Legislators often schedule public meetings to update constituents and monitor constituent opinions. Other times local activists organize a meeting to share ideas with their legislator.

Tips for participation:

• Be prepared (organized and practiced) to speak up.

• Call the Legislators district office ahead of time to know the schedule.

• Sit near the front so the Legislator can see you when you speak.

• Begin with identifying yourself, including your name, representation, and faith group.

• Take a friend for support (event if they don’t speak).

• Be polite, brief, and specific.

• If you don’t get an answer, ask it politely again.