Study Guide

Terms to Define:

Advocacy

 

Web advocacy

 

Propaganda

 

Action Plan

 

Levels of Influence

• lawmakers,

• organizational “best practice” policies

• “grassroots” or individual choice

 

Some Questions to Consider:

• How can I prove the exigence of the issue?

• How can I educate the public on the issue?

• What is the local effect of the issue?

• What are the national implications of the issue?

• What is the global effect of the issue?

• What is the cost of doing nothing?

• What specific actions can I ask for?

• What are the impediments to what I am asking for?

• Who are the opponents to the change I seek?

• How can I identify and attract like-minded people to my cause?

• How can I keep up with evolving data or events that affect the cause?

 

The Necessity of Building a Network

• Bring together like-minded constituencies toward a common goal: your cause

• Build support and credibility among target groups or across demographics

• Raise the profile of the issue by exploiting inexpensive internet platforms

• Design events to rally your group or your viewer base

• Know your opponents! Study their claims, evidence, warrants, etc.

• Communicate with your network; establish a contact list.

• Set clear goals, make specific claims, and be realistic.

• Consider fundraising for your cause, or amplification of a larger funding effort

• Identify and establish relationships with policymakers, organizations, individuals who can help you.

• Be patient.

 

Tools for Influencing Policymakers

• Meetings

• Testimony in hearings or town halls

• E-mail campaigns to key officials

• Telephone calls

• Personal visits

• Position papers that are rich in neutral, non-politicized data

• Policy briefs that share current “best practice” info

 

 

Tools for Influencing Via Media

• Fact Sheets, FAQ’s available to reporters

• Information Packets/Press kits about your group or cause

• Targeted, dedicated Twitter research and data stream/networked with reporters

• Other social media networking

• Dedicated website

• Amplification of like-minded messages from thought leaders on your issue:  re-tweets, links

• Youtube Channel/broadcasts

• STAY ON MESSAGE; BE CONSISTENT.