Interfaith Alliance of Iowa Action Fund
People of Faith & Goodwill
Creating Change in Iowa
HELPFUL TIPS FOR EFFECTIVE ADVOCACY
1. Educate yourself on the issues. More information equals more effective advocacy.
2. Contact the lawmaker before the issue blows up.
3. Don't fake your answer to a question from a lawmaker. If you don't know, tell them you will follow up with additional information. Make sure you do!
4. With written communication:
• Explain your opinion, briefly.
• State your expectation of them as your representative.
• Sign your name; include your address.
• Tell them you will be paying attention to the issue and their vote.
5. Whenever possible, talk with a lawmaker face to face -- at the capitol (or city hall, etc.), at a legislative forum, or other public events.
6. If applicable, include in any correspondence or meeting that you are a person of faith. Lawmakers must understand that there are varying perspectives from people of faith on many issues.
7. Attend Legislative Forums in your district sponsored by your representative or senator.
8. Hold educational forums at your church or organization on issues of importance to you. Make sure you are welcoming of varying perspectives.
Making a Difference
If you don't know your state or federal elected officials, find out now so that you are ready when an important issue arises. You can find your state and federal representatives and their contact information on the Iowa Legislature's website. You can call your state Representative at (515) 281-3221 or your state Senator at (515) 281-3371.
Gov. Chet Culver can be contacted through the website www.governor.iowa.gov or by calling (515) 281-5211.
