Well, this isn’t going to be the most exciting diary of the day or the week. More like the nitty gritty nuts and bolts of how to get the job done. I am asking people to consider scheduling a meeting with their rep to ask them to oppose the TPP. There is a great deal of information out there about it now and a number of diaries so if you have questions about why it should be opposed, I urge you to research this issue. But this is for those who are clear, as I am that it must not pass.
If you can travel to Washington for a meeting, call your legislator 's Capitol Hill office and ask to schedule a time. Or of course you can meet them in your district. The next time they will be in the district is March 7 th to March 11th. If that's not possible, please consider the next congressional break starting April 4th or breaks beyond those dates.
Below are steps to take that will help make your visit as productive as it can be. I want to say thank you to the National Priorities Project as well as the Trade Justice Alliance TPP team for the info below. And, of course, suggestions are welcome.
HOW TO HAVE AN EFFECTIVE MEETING WITH YOUR REP/SENATOR:
One of the most powerful ways to have your voice heard is to schedule a personal meeting with your senator or representative.Since all senators and representatives also have local offices in their home states, you could also schedule a meeting closer to home so you don’t have to travel to Washington.
When you call to request a meeting, explain what issue you want to discuss. Remember that legislators are busy people and it may be hard to get an appointment. Sometimes you will have the opportunity to meet with a congressional aide rather than your legislator.
BEFORE THE MEETING:
- If possible, ask friends or neighbors who share your concerns to attend the meeting with you. Three to five is an optimal number. An educator, a secretary and a presenter are three useful roles to assign. Also, if possible, include a local faith leader as they often have a lot of influence.
- Thoroughly research the topic you will be discussing, including opposing views. Write down a list of your concerns and explain the action you would like your legislator to take.
- Research your legislator. You should know the committees on which he or she serves, her positions on various issues, and her recent voting record.
- Review the budget process and federal budget glossary so you’re not intimidated by budget jargon.
- Practice. If you're going in a small group, give each person an assignment as noted above, so that everyone knows the points they are responsible for making.
- Have an ask and make sure it is written down.
DURING THE MEETING:
Thank your legislator for taking the time to speak with you. Be sure to acknowledge any past action – such as a vote or a public statement – that you support.
- Bring extra copies of any information to which you will refer. Bring several copies so that there are enough for your legislator as well as congressional aides. Always clearly cite any sources you used to prepare the materials.
- Be sure you're very clear about the actions you want your legislator to take. Try to get specific commitments or a date when you should check back about progress on the issue. Make sure to tell them why this issue could get them votes or lose them votes. Write everything down and try to get a commitment in writing.
- No matter what the response, don't lose your cool. If they commit to opposing the TPP, ask them if they would consider writing a letter about that to other representatives. If they support it, ask them why and commit to an ongoing dialogue.
AFTER THE MEETING:
- Send thank-you notes to the legislator and congressional aides
- Check progress by keeping track of your legislator’s voting record. The website Congressional Audit offers a convenient way to get weekly email updates about your elected officials.
- If your legislator follows through on your request, write another thank-you letter. If your legislator does not follow through on something he or she committed to during your meeting, contact the appropriate congressional aide and express your disappointment.
Remember that representatives in the House run for re-election every two years, and senators every six years. If you are disappointed with your legislator, you can show your disapproval by supporting another candidate at election time.
Need to find your rep: check http://www.house.gov
And this is a link to the next international call about the TPP which will focus on its impact on Communities of Color and Latinos. : actionnetwork.org/...
Again, thx for stopping by. Signing off for now, but please of course feel free to comment or Kosmail me. Best/sh