Advocacy

Tips for Visiting Your Legislator at the District Offices

Before the Visit

• Contact the office of the Delegate/Senator beforehand to make an appointment.
• Consider inviting the legislator to visit you and your family at your home or the place where you receive services.
• Bring copies of your personal story and a picture.
• Prepare an "elevator speech". If you had only 90 seconds to get your point across, what would you say?

During the Visit

• Introduce yourself, thank for the opportunity to meet, and explain the purpose of your visit.
• Share your story. How are you affected by the issue at hand?
• Share your perspective. As a constituent, how do you feel about how the issue is being addressed? What would you like your legislator to do about it?
• Ask your Delegate/Senators to support "A Life Like Yours" for Virginians with developmental disabilities and their families. Provide them with a reminder wristband.
• Be sure to thank them for their time once the meeting concludes.

After the visit

• Send a thank you note
• Email an electronic copy of your story with a reminder of your request for their support.

Tips for Self-Advocates
by Katherine Olson, Self-Advocacy Coordinator, The Arc of Virginia

1. Listen to what your legislators have to say and they will listen to you.
2. Practice your story before going in.
3. Write down your story/concerns to leave with them.
4. Greet your legislators with a smile and a firm handshake.
5. Tell them your name and where you are from.
6. Talk to your legislators about institutions. Let them know how you feel and why they should not be building them.
7. Don't be nervous-be yourself.
8. Speak with a gentle voice-don't yell!
9. Make good eye contact.
10. Tell them you want to advocate for "A Life Like Yours"!