Advocacy Tips
Here are some tips on how to be an effective advocate when you contact legislators on issues that affect people in poverty. First, to find out which legislators represent your district, click here. Dos and Don’ts for Writing a Good Letter to Your Legislator
- Do keep your letter to a single page and single subject.
- Do identify yourself. Make sure your name and address appear on the letter; envelopes get tossed.
- Keep the letter to one subject and avoid form letters.
- If you use letterhead, have a reason for doing so. If appropriate, cite your involvement or title with an organization.
- Do use bill numbers if you have them. Don’t use form letters.
- Get the basic facts, and write the letter in your own words.
- Do ask for a response. How will you vote? What is your opinion on this issue? What information do you need?
- Don’t write after a vote. Your letter counts beforehand.
- Don’t expect an immediate reply.
How to Address the Letter
Senator Jane Smith Minnesota Dear Senator Smith,
State Senate
St. Paul, MN 55155
Representative Bob Brown Dear Representative Brown,
Minnesota House of Representatives
St. Paul, MN 55155
Checklist for Making Telephone Calls
Four Keys
- Be Brief.
- Be Timely.
- Rehearse.
- Be prepared to leave a one-sentence message.
Strategy — If you cannot say what you want to say within three minutes, write a letter.
Dos and Don’ts for Making Phone Calls
- Do make notes and practice what you want to say.
- Do identify yourself.
- Do use bill numbers if you have them.
- Do be prepared to leave a short message such as “Please support House File 100, the Hunger Reduction Bill.”
- Don’t insist on a call-back.
- Do make phone calls before key votes. Respond quickly to organizational “alerts.”
- Don’t rely solely on the phone. Get to know your legislator through visits and letters.
Checklist for a Meeting with Your Legislator
Four keys
- Be prepared
- Be respectful
- Stay on topic
- Leave behind written summary
Dos and Don'ts
- Do get to the topic. Don’t let small talk eat away your time.
- Do bring your personal story and stake in the issue. Credential yourself.
- Don’t threaten electoral consequences.
- Do bring fresh, credible information.
- Do ask for support of your position.
- Don’t burn bridges. Keep doors for communication open. Send a thank-you note.
Click here for a map of the capitol complex with buildings and parking lots clearly marked.
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