Create Awareness
We’ve started a movement for adults with developmental disabilities, but we need your voice.
Tips for writing your story
Be concise
Most of the time, it is more than enough to say something like: “Hi, this is Sally Smith. I’m a constituent and am calling to ask Senator X to vote no/yes on this bill.
It’s OK if the person answering the phone does not take down your name. They might ask for your address and zip code, so they can confirm you are actually a constituent of that particular representative or senator. That’s normal.
And if you want to talk to someone more on the issue, you can. We typically provide a few extra talking points in the Action Center, where you’ll find the information about the action alert and your legislator’s contact information, that you can use.
Be confident
Remember, your representative and senators work for you. Not the other way around. The person answering the phone is there to tally responses from constituents in favor of or opposed to legislation. They are not there to argue with you about the merits of the bill.
But what if that happens? What if you are mistreated, ignored or — even worse — belittled by the staff member who takes your call?
Be courteous
No matter what happens, always be polite to those who work for your lawmaker. It’s a great witnessing opportunity. We provide feedback forms for you to let us know how your phone call went. And you can always e-mail us your feedback.
If need be, we will connect with your lawmaker’s office to encourage his or her staff to communicate more hospitably with constituents.
The Wow Center