This month felt like it would never end, but it is coming to a close, and we have survived. We have done so with fewer rights than we had before, but that doesn’t change the fight that we have been engaged in since 2016. While some of you may have believed that voting would help restore liberty for all, those who are informed know that our freedoms have been gradually slipping away for almost a decade.

So, instead of feeling hopeless, it is important to take action. I took time on Monday to sit down with my County Commissioner, she happens to be the Chair of the Commissioners, and I am the Chair of one of the advisory councils that they created back in 2019. One of the things that she said to me was about the importance of surgical power and pressure.

I think it is important to remember that politicians work for the people, and in each community there are ways to influence politicians with your voice. It does take some strategic planning, however, placing yourself in the place where decisions are being made, and making your voice heard.

So, how do you get started?

Here are three impactful ways to influence politicians beyond calling and writing their offices:

1. Join or Start a Local Advocacy Group
   • Impact: Strength in numbers increases visibility and pressure on politicians. Organized groups can host town halls, lobby together, and raise public awareness on key issues.
     • This is something I personally did, I joined a local advocacy group that was started by my county commissioners. The group I chair works to reduce disparities.
2. Attend Public Meetings and Speak at Hearings
   • Impact: Public forums (e.g., city council meetings, school board meetings) offer direct interaction with decision-makers. Speaking at hearings puts concerns on record and holds politicians accountable in a public setting.
     • I have done this as well, speaking publicly can be terrifying, however knowing that you can make changes is incredibly empowering. Change starts locally!
3. Support or Oppose Candidates and Policies Through Volunteering
   • Impact: Campaigning, canvassing, and organizing voter drives can influence elections. Supporting ballot initiatives or referendums can lead to policy changes without relying solely on elected officials.
     • I’ve personally never done this, I have not ever been in a position to support a candidate and I am not sure I would feel comfortable doing so given the complexity of issues. However, I would not rule it out in the future.

The last thing I will tell you is to trust your intuition, and to lean into community. The similarities between us are far greater than our differences, do not let someone you’ve never met tell you who your enemy is.