How to Be an Effective Advocate

Happy Children’s Advocacy Week, social workers! This week, social workers from all over the tri-state will meet in Frankfort to advocate on behalf of children’s safety, health, education, and economic well-being. With this going on and Lobby Day coming up in less than 2 weeks, I think it is crucial that we take the time to understand not only what it takes to be a good advocate, but an effective advocate.

• BE PREPARED. Identify the issues you’re passionate about and do your research.  Look at all sides of the potential argument and make sure you have concrete information. Below, I will attach the proposed KMHC Legislative Priorities, courtesy of Brenda Rosen. This document will give you concise information about some legislature that social workers will be advocating for (or against) during Lobby Day 2023. I have also attached the Social Work Lobby Day Toolkit. This tool kit will help you engage with the legislative process and give tips on how to make your advocacy more effective. 
  
• ENGAGE WITH THE COMMUNITY. Engaging with the community that is being impacted by the legislation you were advocating for will further educate you on the topic. Listen to people who may be personally impacted by the issue for what you were advocating. Bring their stories (with consent) or your personal stories to the legislators you are speaking to. Engaging with the community will also create traction, which will hopefully inspire others to support the issue and create a movement. Social media is a great way to do this!
  
• STAY MOTIVATED. Remember — change takes time. This can be very discouraging, but don’t get frustrated with yourself or the lawmakers. Be patient and consistent.
  

Whether you use this information in person this February 22 for Lobby Day, or you use it to contact your legislator via email or letter, it is valuable as a social worker to understand how to be an effective advocate. Advocacy is an important part of social work, as we promote equality, inclusion, and social justice.

Have any more tips on how to become a more effective advocate? Leave a comment!



Sources: https://kyyouth.org/childrens-advocacy-week/
https://nbacl.nb.ca/module-pages/tips-for-being-an-effective-advocate/

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