A politician's continued success depends on the ability to satisfy their constituents - their re-election is contingent upon it. An effective constituent can wield as much influence on the outcome of a particular piece of legislation as a registered lobbyist. Being an grassroots advocate for your cause is all about building relationships, making calls, writing letters and being passionate about a particular issue or issues.
The following are just a few simple ways in which you can help make a difference:
BECOME A GRASSROOTS ADVOCATE
1. GET TO KNOW YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS.
2. CALL OR WRITE YOUR LEGISLATORS.
3. VISIT YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS.
6. GO DOOR-T0-DOOR.
7. HELP US SPREAD THE WORD.
4. START AN E-MAIL CONTACT LIST.
Start an e-mail contact list of friends, family and co-workers who are interested in learning more about the issue or issues you are advocating. Keep them informed about what you are doing. For instance, send them a copy of your correspondence with your legislators and encourage them to follow your lead. Also, forward to them news stories or articles you come across containing relevant information about your issue or issue.
Don't know who your elected officials are? You're not alone - most people don't. Click on the locator to the right and you can search by your home address to find your state representative and state senator.
You also may want to do a quick internet search on your elected officials and read about their voting record and their stand on issues.
Letters, e-mails and phone calls are the main source lawmakers use to assess the views of their constituents.
Here are some tips to have your letter, e-mail or phone call stand out, and receive the attention it deserves:
- Clearly state the reason for your call, letter or e-mail
- Be brief and to the point when stating the reason for your call, letter or e-mail
- Use your own words, avoid using lingo or jargon
- Ask for the legislator's point of view
- Make sure you provide them with your name, address and phone number
- Ask for a reply
- Express appreciation for their consideration of the matter
Schedule a meeting with your elected officials. When scheduling a meeting make sure you clearly state the purpose for your meeting.
If the purpose of your meeting is to discuss support or opposition for proposed legislation, make sure you are prepared to discuss the merits of your argument. If possible, bring along testimonials from neighbors, community leaders or business owners who support your position.
Print out and bring THINK RED flyers to local political events or community meetings and encourage people to get involved.
Go door-to-door, just like candidates seeking election. Make up a petition briefly stating your position on proposed legislation and ask your neighbors to sign as a show of support. Be prepared to clearly explain the issue and answer questions as many people will not be familiar with the proposed legislation.
Some communities are more conducive to door-to-door canvass than others - do what makes sense in your community.
Remember, legislators hear mostly from constituents who are against something or disapprove of their vote on a particular piece of legislation. A note of appreciation will make them much more likely to remember you next time you write or call.
Paid for by Family Taxpayers Network.
Through the Republican Renaissance Project we'll continue to expose the problems and behavior that led to our Illinois Party's total collapse. We'll keep the spotlight on and inform Republicans about the opportunities available, as well as about the process and requirements for getting involved at all levels.
We believe that once the urgent need is explained - better leaders will rise to the challenge. We know that leaders of strength and integrity are out there - in cities, towns and farms all across Illinois. Republicans who care about the future of our Party and our State should never want to return to the Dark Ages of the Illinois GOP.
