Civic Engagement 101
Civic engagement is about taking an active role in shaping your community and influencing public policy. From contacting elected officials to advocating for meaningful programs, there are many ways to make your voice heard.
Below, you’ll find practical tips for engaging with decision-makers and promoting key initiatives.
Ways to Connect with Your Elected Officials:
- Send an Email or Call: see our Elected Officials drop-down menu for names, email addresses and phone numbers for all elected officials in our community.
- Attend Meetings: Public meetings such as city council or school board sessions are excellent opportunities to learn about issues and voice your concerns. See our calendar for upcoming meeting dates and locations, and our Civic Engagement 101 page for more info on meeting logistics.
- Participate in town halls and other community events: Many officials hold events where you can engage with them directly.
- Invite them to your own community events: Our elected officials love opportunities to meet their constituents and potential voters. Consider inviting them to Shabbat services or special events and lectures.
- Get involved: Join your local PTA or other school committees. Once you have a relationship with your school’s officials, community leaders and elected officials, it is a lot easier to make an ask. Don’t wait to have a need; start building those relationships now.
- Follow and comment on social media: Stay informed about their initiatives and updates by following their official accounts.
Tips for effective engagement with elected officials:
When writing, calling or speaking with your elected official, consider the following suggestions –
Be Prepared
Take the time to learn about them, their priorities and special initiatives. Knowing what matters most to them will allow you to better present your own concerns.
Plan your talking points in advance. Review and rehearse the key points you want to make.
Consider bringing a friend/colleague but make it small. Bringing more than 2-3 people can be overwhelming.
Be Personal
Introduce yourself, noting where you live and/or teach (i.e., confirming that you are a constituent) and establishing a connection to the issue you’d like to discuss.
Be Curious
Don’t be afraid to ask how they stand on the issue; and be tolerant of differing views, keeping dialogue open. Ask for (don’t demand) reaction or feedback on your position. Show openness to the counterarguments and respond without being argumentative.
Be Appreciative
Always thank them for their time and attention; offer yourself as a resource if/when needed.
Be on Time
But don’t be surprised if they’re not. Leave buffer time for a successful or delayed meeting. If you are unexpectedly running late, call the office as a courtesy.
Be Concise
Keep it short and focused. Plan on making no more than 3 key points, using personal and local examples to emphasize the need for your representative’s support.
Be Responsive
Try to answer any questions asked, but if you can’t, let them know you’ll get back to them with the information and be sure to follow up. This gives you an opportunity to double-check the facts and promote further dialogue and engagement.
Be Smart
Send a follow-up “thank you” note, reiterating the points made during the meeting. If you promised to provide more information – provide it. Don’t drop the ball – this is your opportunity to prove that you are a resource.
For suggestions on specific programs and initiatives to advocate for, please contact us at contact@jcan-oc.org