Meet With Your Representative Do politicians care what ordinary citizens think about the issues
they vote on? They certainly do! Our democracy is far from perfect, but
we should never underestimate our influence as voters. Unless
politicians can convince a majority of the voters to support them, they
will be replaced at the next election.
How do you get an
appointment to meet with your Representative? Often, it is as simple as
phoning your Representative's office and asking for an appointment. If
you are not sure who your Representative is, click here. Be prepared to summarize briefly the subject(s) you would like to cover in your meeting.
It
is sometimes helpful to organize a group of friends from your church or
neighborhood who share similar concerns, and to ask for a meeting
together. If any of you have volunteered or donated to the
Representative's campaign, you can be especially sure of getting a
positive reception. But the fact that you are voters gives you all the
justification you need to request a meeting.
If your
Representative is not able to meet with you, you can still ask for an
appointment with one of his or her staff. The staff member will then
convey your concerns to the Representative.
When you have your meeting, follow a few simple rules to maximize your impact:
1. Arrive on time, but be prepared to wait.
2. Be prepared with 2-3 key points you want to make.
3. Share something from your personal story which helps the Representative know why you care about this issue.
4. Ask your Representative for some specific action or commitment.
5. Be positive, smile, and say thank you three different ways. Don't argue.
6. Leave a one-page summary of your issue with the Representative.
7.
Follow up your meeting with a letter summarizing what you said and
reminding the Representative of any commitments he or she made. Say
thank you again.
World Relief's advocacy department is happy to help you in preparing for your meeting. Contact Jenny Hwang at 443-451-1900.
To contact your Representative or Senators:
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