Introduction
You Can Make a Difference in Fifteen Minutes a Month……………………………………………….1
Chapter 1
The Many Questions This Book Answers
Will Lawmakers Really Listen?…………………………………….……………………………………………. 11
Chapter 2
Running Into Roadblocks
Why People Are Reluctant to Take the Next Step………………………………………………………15
• Fifteen Common Barriers
Chapter 3
The Untapped Power of the People
Two or Three Callers Can Draw Attention to an Issue ……………………………………………..19
• Recognizing Your Power
• Why Lawmakers Want to Hear From Constituents
• Key Role of Legislative Aides
• Locating and Contacting Your Lawmakers
Chapter 4
Lawmakers Are People Too
Influences on Lawmakers……………….…………………………………………………………………………27
• The Two Most Important Influences
• Thirty-four Key Factors
Chapter 5
Six Who Discovered Their Voice Could Matter With Lawmakers
Easier Than Anyone Would Have Guessed………………………………………………………………..33
• Ed and Ruth
• John
• Barbara and Maria
• Evelyn
Chapter 6
Adapt Your Everyday Interpersonal Skills to Influence Lawmakers
Abilities You May Take for Granted……………………………………………………………………………53
• Register Your Opinion: Phone, Email, Write
• Build a Relationship With Your Lawmakers
• Get Acquainted With Your Lawmakers
• Understand Your Lawmakers
• Share Your Firsthand Experiences
• Stay Focused on Your Goals
• Express Appreciation to Your Lawmakers
• Express Disappointment to Your Lawmakers
• Describe Issues in Another Way
• Recognize and Acknowledge Mixed Feelings
• Form a Small Group of Like-minded People in Your Lawmaker’s District
Chapter 7
Letters to the Editor and Social Media
Valuable Communication Opportunities……………………………………………………………………71
• Why These Are Effective Communication Techniques
• Ways to Use Letters to the Editor and Social Media Posts
• Tips for Writing Letters to the Editor and Social Media Entries
• Effective Letters to the Editor: Examples
Chapter 8
The Extra Power of Specific Groups
A Special Advantage, A Special Responsibility……………………………………………………..……81
• Volunteers
• Members of Religious Congregations
• Human Service Workers and Community Workers
• Mental Health Professionals
• Health Care Professionals
• Teachers and School Personnel
• Parents
• People Directly Affected, Their Friends, and Relatives
(Low-income People, People With Disabilities, Immigrants and Refugees)
Appendix
Guide to Resources to Help You Advocate
Organizations, With Contact Information………………………………………………………………….97