League of Women Voters of Charleston Area urges residents to 'stand up and speak out'

It’s easy to advocate for causes from the sidelines via technology today. For that reason, many are unaware of the various ways one can become actively involved in local, state and federal government.

Although voting or signing a petition online can be somewhat effective, it is not enough to make a lasting impression on the state’s legislature and representation, explained League of Women Voters State Vice President of Issues and Action Lynn Teague.

“They need to get in touch with their own senators and their own House members,” said Teague. “Legislators are always going to listen more to the people who vote in their district…A citizen doesn’t have to wade into the details so much that they logon to scstatehouse.gov every day to check what bills are in action, but you do need to get those basic messages across—you’re paying attention, you do care.”

This type of community-wide advocacy and the work of the South Carolina’s 2018 General Assembly was the focus of the League of Women Voters of the Charleston Area’s presentation of “Stand Up, Speak Out,” an advocacy workshop, on Jan. 9 at the Charleston County Main Library.

“Our elected officials can’t represent us when we don’t communicate with them,” stated Christen Warrington Broxton, a LOWV member. “Advocacy typically means in-person meetings; correspondence with the press; advocating on social media; and advocating within peer groups like with your friends, at church, clubs, PTA, etcetera.”

To be an effective advocator, the key is to know your issue, Broxton continued. Following the issue on the news, researching the issue using quality, fact-based sources and considering others’ perspectives are just a few ways that were mentioned.

“Focus on your congressman, legislator or council person,” said Broxton. “Know their voting record. Ask about their questions and concerns and try to address those questions and concerns.”

Some other vital points to consider when preparing to advocate for a certain issue are: What do you want to accomplish? What is happening and is likely to happen? Who can make an impact on this issue? And where is the issue in the process and what are the next steps?

As a citizen, there are several methods of advocacy at one’s disposal, stated Broxton. These include, but are not limited to, in-person conversations, telephone calls, representative appearances, letters to public officials, letters to the editor, emails and social media.

The most effective and persuasive, if done correctly, is in-person advocacy, Broxton explained. The key is to be respectful and knowledgeable about the issue at hand.

“Making appointments with a staff member or official is a good idea,” said Broxton. “If possible, bring a small group of three to four. There is strength in numbers. Make sure to keep it simple and be clear about what you want. Also, don’t forget to thank them for meeting with you.”

When in a meeting with a representative, make sure to ask for support and specific action, she continued. Anticipate responses and be prepared to discuss, acknowledge concerns and be prepared with ideas or solutions. When in agreement, offer support and when in disagreement, try to find common ground. Be sure to summarize the agreement and lastly, schedule a follow-up.

“You can also leave a short, printed summary of your issue, reason for concern, impact and recommendations so they do not forget,” added Broxton.

Staying informed and active is at the core of being a good advocate for your community, state and, in some cases, the nation, explained Teague.

“We want energized voters talking to their reps,” said Teague. “South Carolina is a small state and these districts aren’t that big. People think their voice doesn’t matter. That’s not true. Both House members and Senators know that within the many people in their districts, for instance there are about 37,000 in a House district in S.C., there really is only a small percentage that are active and are doing things like writing letters to the editor, getting in touch with the representatives and are informed. Be one of those people.”

For more information on the league or how to become an effective advocator for issues affecting your community or the state, visit http://www.lwvcharleston.org.