In moments of political gridlock or injustice, it’s easy to feel powerless—especially if you’re working on an issue as urgent and personal as sexual violence.
But here’s the truth: lawmakers pay attention to constituents who speak up. You don’t need a law degree or a massive social media following to influence policy. You just need to know how to take action—and keep at it.
This guide walks you through how to talk to legislators, build meaningful connections, and influence the laws that shape survivors’ lives.
The 2 Most Powerful Things You Can Do
1. Show Up in Person
Nothing makes an impression like your physical presence. While online petitions and mass emails may go unread, face-to-face contact demands attention. Here’s how to use it:
- Attend town halls. These public forums are designed for questions—your questions. Push for real answers, especially if a legislator tries to avoid survivor-related issues.
- Visit their local office. Every member of Congress has offices in their home state or district. Make an appointment or stop by during open hours to share your concerns.
- Look for mobile offices. Some representatives host “pop-up” offices in libraries or community centers. Watch their website or newsletter for locations near you.
- Engage at public events. Whether it’s a press conference, a parade, or a ribbon-cutting—if your legislator is there, so are you. Be respectful but assertive about your cause.
Why it works: When elected officials see a passionate, informed voter looking them in the eye, they remember it. You’re putting a face to the issue—and that’s powerful.
2. Call Every Day
If showing up in person isn’t an option, calling is the next best thing—and it works. Congressional staffers rank phone calls as the most effective form of constituent communication, especially when they’re consistent.
Pro tip: Call both the D.C. and local offices of your two senators and one representative every weekday. That’s six calls a day. It takes about 10 minutes.
Here’s how to make each call count:
- Ask for the right staffer. “Hi, can I speak to the staffer who handles [issue area]?”
- Say who you are. “My name is [NAME]. I live in [CITY, STATE, ZIP CODE]. I’m a constituent.”
- Share your story. “As a survivor/teacher/parent/voter, I care about this issue because…”
- Make a clear request. “I urge the Senator to vote NO on [bill name]…” Or, “Thank you for supporting [bill name]—please continue to prioritize it.”
- Keep it brief. Focus on one or two issues per call. Be direct, respectful, and to the point.
What To Say: A Customizable Script
Use this script to help you get started:
“Hello, I’d like to speak with the staffer responsible for [ISSUE AREA].”
(If unavailable: “Can you please take a message or tell me their name?”)
“Hi, my name is [NAME], and I’m a constituent from [CITY/STATE/ZIP CODE].
As a [PARENT/TEACHER/SURVIVOR/VOTER], I’m concerned about [ISSUE] because [IMPACT].
I’m calling to urge [SENATOR/REPRESENTATIVE] to [ACTION].
Thank you for your time and for listening.”
Nervous? You’re Not Alone.
Phone anxiety is real. Talking to someone in a political office can feel intimidating—but remember, these staffers work for you. They expect calls. They track calls. And your call, even if it’s shaky, could tip the scales on an important vote.
Start small. Practice reading the script aloud. If it helps, call a friend first and roleplay. By day three or four, you might be surprised how confident you feel.
Take Action Today
Legislative advocacy isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about having the courage to show up.
- Set up your call list. Save the numbers of your senators and representative in your phone.
- Plan to attend an upcoming town hall. Bring a friend and a question.
- Commit to calling every weekday for a week. Then do it again.
Your voice has power. When survivors and allies speak up, lawmakers listen—and laws change. Will your voice be the one that sparks change?
Need help finding your legislators? Visit www.house.gov and www.senate.gov to look up your elected officials and their contact information.