UnitedJewishCommunities

Advocacy

Advocacy is the process by which individuals and organizations can speak out on behalf of the issues that matter most to them. For decades, the federation system has been at the forefront of matters affecting Jews around the world, using our voice to influence important public policy debates. We continue to advocate because elected officials and their staffs need to hear from their constituents regarding their actions and their votes. Further, we are inspired by our Jewish values to repair the world – Tikkun Olam. And our history has taught us that our actions truly make a difference.

It is therefore critical that this generation of Jewish leaders meet face- to-face with members of Congress or their staffs as a way to not only affect legislation, but to build and maintain meaningful relationships with those who can make a difference.

 

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Lobby Tips

1. You don’t have to be an expert on the issues–nor are you expected to be. But as a constituent and a voter, you have the power to influence your legislator simply by expressing where you stand on an issue.
   
   
2. Be on time, dress professionally and keep jewelry to a minimum.
   
   
3. Plan ahead. Know the issues and where your elected official stands on them. Know who is running the meeting and follow their lead.
   
   
4. Open the meeting with introductions. Thank the representative or senator (or their staff person) for their past support (if appropriate) and thank them for taking the time to meet with you.
   
   
5. Be clear and concise. Ask for as specific an action as possible.
   
   
6. Keep in mind that legislators only have a short amount of time to meet. Listen to the comments of the
   member or staff person and be gracious–even if you disagree.
   
   
7. Be polite and try to get your position across. Move on to the next topic when it is clear you either have
   agreement, or cannot reach agreement, in the available time.
   
   
8. Stick to the agenda even if the member veers off course. Politely bring the discussion back to the
   topic(s) at hand.
   
   
9. Present a united front. Avoid arguing with other conference participants in front of members and their staff.
   
   
10. Be honest, even if it means saying you don’t know the answer. Offer to find out the information and
    make sure to follow up. This is an important opening for continuing dialogue and adds to your credibility.
    
    
11. Get names of any staff persons present. They are key players in the office and can serve as your
    continuing link to your member. Be sure to thank staff and keep in touch with them.
    
    
12. Leave UJC materials on the issues with the congress member/staff persons as well as any relevant
    contact information.
    
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