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Connecticut Water Trails
Program
Connecticut Water Bar
Effective Advocacy -
Changing Public Opinion
The basis of our
government being the opinion of the people, the very first object should
be to keep that right.
-- Thomas
Jefferson, 1787
Maybe your issue is too controversial for
legislation. Legislators rarely drive opinion, but respond to it.
Frankly, that is how it is supposed to work - you want our
representatives to follow the public, not the other way around.
Maybe there is a prevailing myth about your issue
that needs to change. Until that myth is exposed, it will be difficult
to get government to step in.
So, you need to move public opinion. While that is
very difficult for one person alone, it usually starts with one person.
Never underestimate the power of talking to friends, neighbors,
and acquaintances about your issue. You'd be amazed at how effective
it can be -- it's a small world.
Do not pass up opportunities to speak to groups. Many community
groups search for speakers for their events - the PTA, the League of
Women Voters, etc. Take advantage of these opportunities - they want
to hear about your issue.
Use the - the primary way most of us get
information about public policies.
Get to know the media, let them get to
know you
Read, watch or listen to see which sources pay attention
to your issue area
Introduce yourself
Send a packet of information with a personal note
offering your help -- serve as a resource for information
and quotes, be sure to include your in the packet (do not
assume they will keep the envelope)
Follow up with a phone call
Contact them on occasion (don't be a pest) with real life
stories, results of a new survey or report, a different or
local take on a national trend, etc.
Become a local "expert" - when a story arises on the issue, work to
make sure they think of you
Write an Op-Ed or Letter to the Editor
Call into a talk radio show
Be interviewed by a reporter
Include the media in any events you are planning
Some issues can be addressed by passing a law,
getting one enforced or just by getting the right information to the
right person at the right time.
But some are harder. It happens slowly, but it will
happen.
 How To Shift Focus On A News Story
Getting Your Message Into National Stories
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