✅ Civic Engagement Guide: How to Lobby Your Elected Leaders
We will show up, speak out, and organize to build the power to replace corrupt politicians.
America, our communities are under direct attack. Billionaires like Elon Musk are gaining control over critical federal systems. Convicted 34-time felon President Donald Trump is surrounding himself with extremists determined to dismantle everything America stands for—turning our government into a theocratic autocracy designed to strip away our rights and freedoms. And while this happens, MAGA Republicans in Congress are not just standing by—they're helping. Republicans don't want to represent us; they want to rule over us.
We are not powerless. In fact, we hold the power they fear most—the power of collective action. We are rising up and pushing back.
No one can impose their racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, antisemitism, homophobia, misogyny, sexism, ageism, ableism, sizeism, transphobia, misogynoir, elitism, and bigotry on us.
America works best when it works for all of us—no matter who we are or where we come from. But MAGA Republicans & their billionaire backers want to turn back the clock to a time when wealthy white men held all the power and hoarded all the opportunities. They spread lies to cover up the progress we've made, hoping to divide us and tighten their grip on power. We're not falling for it. We demand a government that reflects all of us, represents every one of us, and serves no one's interests but the people's. No exceptions.
We will not be silenced. We will not be sidelined.
This is our moment to stand up, push back, and fight for the country we believe in.
We will show up, speak out, and organize to build the power to replace them.
How to Lobby Your Elected Leaders
Lobbying your elected leaders is one of the most effective ways to influence public policy and advocate for issues that matter to you. Whether you're passionate about healthcare, climate change, education, or any other cause, your voice can make a difference. Here's a concise guide on how to lobby effectively.
1. Understand the Basics
Lobbying involves communicating with elected officials to persuade them to support or oppose specific legislation or policies. This can be done through meetings, phone calls, letters, petitions, emails, or even social media.
2. Do Your Homework
Before reaching out, research your elected officials. Understand their voting record, public statements, and positions on key issues. Identify the committees they serve on and how your issue aligns with their responsibilities.
3. Be Clear and Concise
When communicating with officials:
State Your Purpose: Clearly explain why you're contacting them.
Be Specific: Reference the bill number or policy you're addressing.
Share Your Story: Personal experiences can be powerful and memorable.
Stay Focused: Limit your message to one or two key points.
4. Schedule a Meeting
If possible, request a face-to-face meeting or a meeting via Zoom. To do this:
Contact Their Office: Reach out via phone or email to schedule an appointment.
Be Flexible: Understand that their schedule may be tight.
Prepare: Bring fact sheets, data, and a concise summary of your position.
5. Build Relationships
Stay connected with your representatives and their staff—it makes a difference. Staff members are often the ones shaping policy recommendations behind the scenes, so treating them with respect and professionalism goes a long way. Build genuine relationships, take the time to meet with them, and keep the lines of communication open. Your voice matters, and strong connections help amplify it.
6. Effective Communication Tips
Be Polite and Professional: Maintaining a respectful tone regardless of stance.
Listen Actively: Understand their perspective to address concerns effectively.
Follow Up: Send a thank-you note summarizing key points discussed or leave behind a one-pager at your meeting.
7. Leverage Strength in Numbers
Group lobbying can amplify your message. Organize with like-minded individuals, advocacy groups, or coalitions to demonstrate broad support.
8. Utilize Various Channels
In addition to meetings:
Phone Calls: Quick and direct, ideal for urgent issues.
Emails and Letters: Provide a written record of your position.
Social Media: Public platforms can attract attention and encourage broader engagement.
9. Track and Follow Up
Monitor the progress of legislation you're advocating for. Stay engaged by:
Checking Voting Records: See how your representative votes.
Providing Updates: Share new information or developments.
Continued Engagement: Keep the conversation going beyond a single interaction.
10. Stay Informed and Engaged
Policy landscapes evolve. Stay informed about current issues, attend town halls, and participate in civic activities. Your continued involvement strengthens democratic processes and ensures your voice is heard.
Final Thought
Lobbying is about persistence and building relationships. Your efforts, combined with those of others, can lead to meaningful change. Remember, democracy thrives when citizens actively engage with their leaders. Together, we can champion our rights, freedoms, and democracy, hold our leaders accountable to the people's will, and inspire voters to make a meaningful difference.
Click here to join your People Power State Team
Click here to join a Grassroots Lobbying Team
Click here to join the Social Media Team
Click here to join an Event
Additional Resources
National Alliance to End Homelessness
Farmers Market Coalition
American Humanist Association
Commons Library
Join us to build People Power! Together, we can champion our rights, freedoms, and democracy, hold our leaders accountable to the people's will, and inspire voters to make a meaningful difference.
Laurie Woodward Garcia (paid with hugs and kisses, not bought by special interests)
Leader, People Power United
Representing America's largest grassroots organization with over 200,000+ members, driven entirely by the energy and commitment of everyday people. We are proudly 100% independent, powered by people—not special interests.
People Power United | In this community, we will always speak out against racism, xenophobia, Islamophobia, antisemitism, homophobia, misogyny, sexism, ageism, ableism, sizeism, elitism, transphobia, misogynoir, and bigotry! Check out our 2023 recap post to see how impactful our scrappy People Power United group is!
People Power United is a group of community members that champions progressive values and power for the people.
People Power United is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support our work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.