(1) Figure out which legislator you should contact. Federal, state or local?
This is based on the issue you are contacting them about and who has the power to do something about it.
(2) Find out who YOUR legislator is.
Email addresses are not always listed on legislator’s websites. (You may have to dig a bit.) You can call their office and ask for what would be the best email address to use for your particular issue.
(3) Prep for your call, email, or meeting by knowing your issue.
- First, factual information about the issue.
- Second, a personal story as to why the issue matters.
- Third, a clear ask. (For example: how to vote on an existing bill, the request for legislative action to be taken, or a request for another type of action.)
(4) Go for it!
- Succinctly share the 3 things from above.
- With phone calls, you will often be leaving a message.
- You will not always get a response or a follow up. That is ok.
(5) Rinse, Lather, Repeat.
Contacting your legislator is not a one time thing. Engaging with your elected officials is a civic right – one that is one of the best ways to participate in our democracy.
Sample Scripts
PHONE CALL:
“Hello! My name is (your name) and I am a constituent of (name of your legislator). I would like to share my concerns about Z, who should I speak to?”
*Note – leaving a message is ok! So is speaking with a legislator. If questions cannot be answered, ask for a follow up!
EMAIL:
“Hello! My name is (your name) and I am a constituent of (name of your legislator). I am writing to you about (issue). I am hoping that you will… (ask). I look forward to hearing from you.”
*Note – when discussing issues, start with defining the issue (use data!), then share your connection, then conclude with an ask. Be succinct!
Still struggling with what to say?
Reach out to us – we can help!
Email Blake Emmanuel, our Director of Advocacy and Policy, at bemmanuel@thefundcc.org