A Profile in Success and Leadership: Advocacy & Organizing
By Colin, Campus Organizer
Kent State University’s branch of Eta Sigma Gamma, the National Health Education Honor Society, partnered with Spiritual Youth For Reproductive Freedoms (SYRF), Advocates For Youth, Campus Progress, and our local Planned Parenthood to plan the event. By forming these working relationships we were able to book two prominent speakers free of charge and received full funding for all expenses related to the conference. Our partners supplied us with all promotional, educational, and advocacy materials left with legislators. In return these partners received local media attention and the contact information of those participating in the event.
Mimi Melles, the Coordinator for the Youth Activist Network (YAN) of Advocates For Youth presented on advocacy and organizing strategies, and provided details on the specifics of the legislation we advocated for during our legislative meetings. SYRF provided us with Reverend Tony Minor, a Cleveland based advocate for reproductive rights. Reverend Minor discussed the importance of passion, confidence, and a well-crafted message in any advocacy presentations. State Representative Kathleen Chandler spoke on the power of one voice to make a difference, specifically the power of youth voices. (Organizing Tip: Local politicians will often speak free of charge, draw media attention to your cause, and be delighted by the invitation!)
The next day’s advocacy trip to Columbus served two goals: to provide valuable experience for eager young advocates, and to make progress on legislation regarding a) the HPV vaccine, and b) comprehensive sexuality education. Our trip accomplished both goals. Participants were beaming with excitement, empowerment, and pride at participating in advocacy on these important issues. And the advocates made serious progress on the legislation, including one State Senate office pledging to duplicate and distribute our packet of materials to every member of the committee considering the legislation.
Planning an event like this is challenging, but with a little creativity and a lot of dedication it can be done! Here are a few tips to help your group get started.
- Seek partners in your effort to provide ideas, funding, materials (hand outs, informational packets, etc) labor, and even food and lodging. Who can you ask for help? Don’t hesitate to ask – “The worst they can do is say no” should be your mantra.
- Promote your conference:
- On FaceBook, in classes, and at student group meetings
- Through the media (Send letters to the editor, press advisories, and invitations to press)
- By posting and distributing flyers (Remember your mantra - try asking a professor or boss for access to the copy machine!)
- By inviting politicians to attend or present (Remember your mantra!)
- Plan ahead! Rooms, catering, and transportation are cheaper when booked in advance; and planning ahead reduces stress on the day of the big event. But be aware that things always change – leave room in the schedule for revisions.
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