Our government officials are charged with representing our interests, but it’s our responsibility to let them know what we need. If you’re having trouble finding services, call the governor, state representative and state senator and raise the issue. If your county provides an excellent program to support your child, email your representative with a thank you. If there’s a congressional election coming up, write your district’s candidates and ask them what they’re doing for people with autism. We need to let our elected representatives know that we are paying attention and we want our government to care about autism!
Take action – learn how to make your voice heard on important issues, and shape policies and practices that improve services
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Contact:
General Tips for Contacting Your Legislator
- Contact your legislative office when an issue is being heard in committee, especially if your legislator serves on the committee discussing the issue.
- If the legislator is unavailable, ask if there is a staff person who handles your issue.
- When you want a legislator to take a position on an issue, contact them before there is a vote.
- Be brief and get to the point quickly. Be specific about why you are contacting them.
- If asked, be prepared to give your name, address and the organization you represent (if any).
- If you live in the representative’s district, tell them.
- Be polite, professional, positive and respectful.
- If you are concerned about a specific bill, give the bill number and subject. State your position on the bill and a brief reason for that position.
- Tell your legislator what you want them to do.
- Thank them if they agree with you.
- If they disagree with you or aren’t sure, tell them how a bill will affect your family, friends, community, business or job. Include one or two specific examples.
- Offer to be a resource for issues related to autism.
- Thank them for their time.
For additional training in effective advocacy, check out the on-line courses offered at http://partnersonlinecourses.com/