A public meeting can help you to gain support for your cause by educating other members of your community. It can also catch the attention of the media and decision-makers. It is a forum for interaction, for discussion of alternative viewpoints, and can provide an opportunity to question a public official.
Working with the media is an important component of any advocacy strategy. It can increase public awareness and can also catch the attention of elected officials. You may find yourself engaging with the media through writing press releases and letters to the editor, or by offering information to a journalist. The media may also contact you for an interview. It’s important to know how to approach the media and how to get your voice heard through newspapers, television, and the radio.
A press release provides information to various sectors of the media concerning a newsworthy topic or event. It is a great way to get information to the public. It should be short and should catch the attention of the news editor. You can send it by email, mail, or fax.
Figuring out what to do about a particular issue can be the most challenging—and important—part of a campaign. The most effective advocacy strategy uses a diversity of methods—or tactics. The tactics you choose will depend on the issue and the political context. The following chart will help you decide your tactics for action.
A one-page brief is a useful tool to communicate your message to MPs, the media, and others. The one-page brief summarizes the problem, the background information, and the solutions that you propose. This is a good resource to bring to a meeting with an MP, to give to the media (for instance, if you are holding a media-covered event), or for anyone who is interested in learning about your issue.
Civil servants are an important part of the policy process. They play a key role in preparing options beforehand. Once legislation is passed, it is up to the appropriate department to implement these changes.
Inviting others to participate in your advocacy work is a good way to build morale and increase your influence. You may know others who are already concerned about the same cause, or you may invite others to learn more. You can also contact organizations that are already working on your cause or that may be interested in getting involved. Building relationships with others can facilitate information-sharing, and increasing your network of advocates will strengthen your campaign!
Building relationships with decision-makers puts you in a good position to advocate for change. By getting to know your representatives—your MP, MPP, MLA, MNA, city councillors or mayor—and building a reputation of credibility, you can open doors for the future. Below are some ways to develop positive relationships with your elected representatives.
A personal letter to your MP (Member of Parliament) can be an effective tool for change. Whether you are writing individually or with a letter-writing campaign, the following guidelines will help you know how to write an effective advocacy letter to an MP.
A petition is a good tool for a straightforward issue that has widespread support. There are fifteen minutes set aside daily in the House of Commons for petitions to be read. There is no debate following the reading of the petition, but the government is required to respond to your petition within 45 days. Your petition could spark interest among Members of Parliament or it could influence a debate already occurring in the House of Commons.