allaboutadvocacy.com

Taking Action

Former VP Al Gore launched its new advertising campaign today. The goal is to enlist 10 million advocates.  You can find out more on www.wecansolveit.org. The first of the new ads is available to view. There is a button on the web site with ideas for Taking Action, a true advocacy criterion. When I clicked on the Advocate for Change, there was a host of activities suggested for helping with climate change. They were:

• Writing to elected officials
• Meeting with elected representatives
• Writing an op-ed piece to my local paper
• Letters to the Editor
• Making talk radio work for you

I was particularly intrigued about the advice on calling into a talk radio program and read the pointers on making one’s arguments “advocable” (new word):

• Listen to the show to get an idea of topics addressed and the kind of rapport the host has with callers. Does the host challenge callers and cut them off, or is he or she more likely to invite a diversity of opinions? Don’t be afraid to call shows with typically argumentative hosts. If you present your point in a clear, non-flustered manner, your call will have been a success.
• Write out a couple of clear (and brief!) talking points. Plan on making your point in no more than a few sentences.
• If you think you will be nervous, practice stating your point out-loud or with a friend.
• Try calling early in the show, ideally about five minutes before the show starts.
  You will speak to a screener who will ask what you would like to talk about. Keep your point short and avoid going into detail. You might say you are calling to talk about “green energy” or “the importance of good public transportation.”
• When you get on-air, stay focused and calm. State your point in a few clear and short sentences. Just don’t read directly from your notes — listeners can tell.
  If the host challenges you or tries to re-direct the conversation, bring listeners back to your central point.
• Avoid sounding flustered, obstinate, or argumentative. Instead, work to come across as calm and authoritative.

Helpful advice on an important advocacy tool. I had also heard Al Gore on the radio last Sunday and was moved by his comments on how he became an advocate after his devastating defeat for the presidency.  Gore talked about how he had no where else to go but dust off his old climate change slides and start over. It was remarkable to hear the passion and commitment in his voice.  His comments on restoring his life’s direction made me visit their site this morning and read about the solutions they offer on minimizing one’s impact on the environment.

Gore’s advocacy on climate change can fuel change and mobilize people to take action. Advocacy works.