Advocate Within A Collective
It is no secret that advocacy is often more effective in greater numbers. This is why it is so important to build community and advocate as a collective entity.
Draft and circulate sign-on letters
Sign-on letters are a great tool for people or organizations with shared interests to make their voices heard. Clinicians across the country have successfully used sign-on letters to draw attention to critical issues, like access to reproductive health care.
Here’s what you need to do to be successful:
Identify your target(s)
The first step is determining who you are trying to reach - this can be policymakers, health system leaders, the media, the public, etc.
Make sure it is clear who you are speaking to and the role they play in the issue(s) at hand.
Solidify your ask
Once you know who you are speaking to, you need to determine what you want them to do. What is your desired outcome of this letter?
Be specific with your ask(s), and make sure your messaging and backup is clear and concise.
Invite collaborators
Inviting collaborators has many merits. You will have support during the entire process, meaning the work will not fall entirely on you. Additionally, collaborators can help craft messages and copy-edit language. Finally, you will expand your reach for potential signatories by having additional people leading the charge.
Collect signatures
When it’s time to collect signatures, find a form that is easy for signatories to use, and also easy for you to maintain.
Signers can be anyone who shares your goal with the letter, or they can be individuals with similar expertise. For example, maybe you want the letter to be from clinicians in your state, or other MFMs from across the country.
Spearhead an organized call-in or write-in day
Speaking to your elected officials by yourself is great - but providing an opportunity for your community to do so, too, is even better!
Here’s what you will need to get started:
Identify a location or webpage
Are you planning to rent an in-person space? Or will you host the event virtually or asynchronously? Whatever you choose, make sure you have the date and space or platform secured before you move forward.
Write your script/message
Make sure you do your research and remain clear and concise. You can follow the steps we’ve outlined on our Connect With Elected Officials page. Just make sure this script/message is non-specific to you so others can use it, too.
Develop supporting resources
If your event is in-person, print out the messaging you want people to use, as well instructions for how folks can determine who their representatives are and how to reach them. For virtual events, put all of this in a document to send out!
Invite your community
Now it’s time to promote and publicize your event. Be sure to create a short pitch to make the event inviting - why should people care? Why should they participate? Then, spread this message and the event information throughout your community.
Get Involved with Existing Organizations
Working within a collective doesn’t mean you have to spearhead the action for everyone else - in fact, there are usually existing organizations, coalitions, and/or mutual aid groups who are doing this work already. This may be the best option for you to get involved and make your voice heard.
Volunteer
Uplift Messaging
Donate