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Do Your Homework
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For legislation, know the bill number and what the bill is about.
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For funding issues know how much is needed and what it is for.
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Be able to describe why the issue is important to You and to your community.
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Use personal stories to illustrate your facts – they will be remembered.
Keep Your Message Simple & Specific
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Discuss one issue at a time. If you have more than one concern, write about
it or discuss them at a different time.
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Include a specific request in your discussion or letter.
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When meeting with legislators, have something in writing to leave with them.
Always include your name and contact information.
Tell the Truth
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You will become a valuable resource. If you don’t, you will lose all
credibility for yourself and possibly your issue as well.
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If you’re asked a question that you can’t answer, say so. Promise to get the
information later, and do it!
Remember, There is Strength in Numbers and a Unified Voice
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Identify people and groups who support your issue.
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Work in collaboration with others whenever possible. There is always enough
work to go around.
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When disagreements arise work them out among yourself and present a united
front to the legislature.
Don’t Be Threatening or Confrontational
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These issues are personal.
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Accept that you will not convince everyone on every issue.
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It is more important to keep lines of communication open.
Think Big – But Know Your Bottom Line
Mind Your Manners
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“The only pure and consistent advocates for a child are his or her parents
or family members,” explains Betsy Primm, coordinator of Georgia Learning
Resource Services Metro-North branch. “That doesn’t mean that educators
don’t advocate every day for their students, but year in and year out, that
is a parent’s role.” |
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