How To Be Politically Active As An Individual
YOU have the POWER!! It is true that large numbers make a big impact on news media and leaders in the Legislature. However, just because you may not have a large group does not mean that you lack influence. Robert Kennedy once said, “It takes one man to make a difference, and every man should try.” How can you make a difference? Here are a few suggestions.
Personal Strengths— Make an evaluation of your personal strengths. Are they writing, speaking, debating, arguing, mediating, or teaching. Then, base your strategy on what you are best at.
Persistence & Dedication — Don’t be easily discouraged if you don’t succeed immediately. The process of getting your point across to a legislator is not easy. Keep in mind, he/she is hearing different sides of the same issue. The important thing is to know your facts and have faith in your efforts. Keep pushing and you will make a difference. Persistence is what proves your dedication.
Correspond with Your Legislators — Writing letters to members of the Legislature does make a difference. They do pay attention to letters. For more information on writing letters, see the section “Communicating with Governmental Officials.”
Letters to the Editor and Opinion-Editorial Articles (Op-Eds) — These are the two most highly read sections of newspapers and magazines and are the easiest way to voice your opinion to policymakers and the public. Before sending your letter or op-ed article, keep the following in mind:
Know the policies of the newspapers. Policies may vary from newspaper to newspaper.
Target several newspapers, in order to get to as many readers as possible.
Stick to one subject and keep it to 3 or 4 paragraphs.
Before you write, make sure that you are knowledgeable of the issue and that your facts are correct.
Keep your angle simple and to the point. Make sure your target audience knows the position you are taking on the issue and why you feel they need to know the facts.
Be persistent. If the first one is not published, try again.
Meet with Your Legislator — Elected officials and their staff often meet with constituents to get their views on an issue. You can meet with your Legislator as an individual or as a group. When calling, make sure the appointment scheduler knows who you are and why you would like to set up an appointment. Keep in mind that your Legislator is busy and has many appointments, so make sure you are on time or early for the appointment. You may only have 30 minutes, so know your facts. Chances are you know more about the issue than your Legislator, since he/she has numerous pieces of legislation placed on their agendas. It is helpful if you can leave a packet of informational material that supports your stance on the issue. After your visit, write a letter thanking the Legislator for his/her time and support.
Email — This will not replace the resonance of a personally signed letter, but when the situation is timely, take advantage of the speediness and convenience of email. It’s a good idea to mail a hardcopy of your email, too.
Contacting Your Legislators
To contact your state legislator by phone or letter, you may use our searchable online state legislature directory or call your the state switchboard at (334) 242-8000 and ask for your Senator's and/or Representative's office.
| Alabama House of Representatives | Alabama State Senate |