Advocacy is action! It's speaking out to support a cause, policy or idea that you believe in. It's an agent for change.
Successful advocacy efforts are:
- persistent
- built on true, strong and accurate facts
All successful advocacy efforts demonstrate five key elements:
1. Identify the issue
- Keep it simple.
- Use plain language.
- Be passionate.
2. Know the four whos:
- who's involved
- who's affected
- who can help
- who could derail your efforts
3. Gather information:
- Collect the facts.
- Understand the decision-making process.
- Familiarize yourself with tools and resources.
- Identify any funding implications.
4. Develop a plan:
- what needs to be done
- what resources you need (human, financial, other)
- what's the timeframe
5. Involve others:
- Create a critical mass of voices.
- Collaborate and communicate.
- Share strengths.
- Take collective action.