Take Action with the Right Tools

Making change starts with knowing where to begin. Use these resources to engage with lawmakers, advocate for Puerto Rican communities, and stay informed.

Intro

Your Voice Matters

Advocacy is about speaking up and taking action. Whether you're new to civic engagement or a seasoned advocate, these resources will help you connect with decision-makers and push for policies that can improve your community.

Top Ten Tips for Engaging in Effective Advocacy

All Politics Is Local.

All elected officials are interested in addressing the needs of  their constituents.

Show Gratitude.

Always say please and thank you and let them know if this is your first time engaging with the office. Thank the office for taking the time to meet with you and hearing your story and your current concerns.

Make your Case, Make a Difference.

Speaking up gets your issues on the radar and lets them know not only who you are but what you care about. This is your opportunity to connect. Make your case!

This is a Long Game, there are no Instant Solutions.

Adjust your expectations. Rome wasn’t built in a day. Public policy changes are often incremental and dramatic policy shifts take time.

Common Interests.

Legislators and staff have hobbies, families, and favorite causes just like you. By learning about them as people, and sharing your similarities, you can identify ways to build a relationship and rapport.

Always be Respectful.

The staff of elected officials are a uniquely valuable part of the team. Focus on them as well even if the meeting is with the elected official. They advise the legislator and are dedicated to public service work. They can be a great internal champion for your cause, and they may run for and hold public office themselves someday.

Be Truthful. Always.

Do not make things up. Share the facts accurately, even if they might not help your case directly. It’s important to maintain your credibility as a trusted potential ally and resource.

Support their Efforts.

Support the good works of your elected officials. This is a two-way street. Promote their work on your networks. Honor them and congratulate them, when appropriate.

Practice Makes Perfect: Make Advocacy a Habit.

It’s a mistake to think that one meeting a year will move the needle. In fact, it will be a waste of your time. Keep in touch with your elected officials and their staff all year long. Invite them to visit your school, facility or community. Follow them and tag them on social media. Ensure that you are on their mailing list and media lists and connect with them on social media.

Do your Due Diligence.

Read. Be informed. Understand both sides of issues. If you are tracking legislation, please know the status of the bill. Visit your elected official’s website, know their committees. Follow your legislators’ newsletters, press releases and social media to be informed about their interests, priorities, office events you may want to join.

Take the Next Step

Now that you have the tools, it’s time to act! Share these resources, join an advocacy program, or participate in one of our civic engagement workshops.