Curriculum Guide to Grassroots Advocacy in SpeechLanguage Pathology and Audiology

1
Curriculum Guide to Grassroots Advocacy in
Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology

• Module 4 Strategies for Effective Political
  Advocacy

2
Tips for Working With Your Legislator in
Grassroots Advocacy

• Contact your legislator to alert him/her about
  the issue of concern
• Personal visits can be an effective way to
  educate Members of Congress about an issue
• If a personal visit is not possible communicate
  with Members of Congress via letters or e-mail

3
Tips for Effective Communication with Legislators

• Know your audience
• Legislative aides make excellent allies
• Prepare for your meeting

4
Tips for Effective Communication with Legislators

• State your position clearly and concisely
• Have your picture taken with your legislator
• Write a follow-up thank you note to your
  legislator and staff

5
Writing Effective Letters to Legislators

• In your personal letter include examples of the
  impact of the issue you are addressing
• Be brief, clear and specific about the issue
• Be positive and courteous
• Follow-up with a phone call or e-mail

6
Strategies for Effective Telecommunication with
Legislators

• Phone calls to legislators and/or their staff can
  make a difference in advocating for an issue
• Explain who you are and express your concern(s)
• Ask for a written response to your request
• Send e-mails and avoid faxes
• Confirm that e-mail is checked daily by either
  your legislator or his/her staff

7
Writing and Publishing Effective Opinion
Editorials ( Op-Eds)

• Timing of writing an op-ed is critical for
  publication consideration
• Focus on the impact the issue will have on the
  general public
• Use local statistics
• Write using the correct publication format

8
Writing and Publishing Effective Opinion
Editorials ( Op-Eds)

• Choose the largest newspaper
• Follow-up with the newspaper
• Send copies of your op-ed to your professional
  organization and legislator

9
Effective Use of the Radio in Grassroots Advocacy

• Listen to the local and national call-in
  programs
• Select and listen to the target program
• Study the radio programs listening audience
• Craft your message for call-in programs
• Be courteous and positive during your
  presentation about the issue

10
Effective Use of the Media in Grassroots Advocacy

• Communication with the media at state and local
  levels to advance the professions is essential
• Your relationship with the media will strengthen
  over time
• Your advocacy efforts with the media will inform
  the public about issues affecting the professions
  and consumers with communication disorders