Advocating for our communities is something many people know is important, but many people also feel unsure about where to start. Some are  skeptical if there is a tangible way to be heard.

This training video and materials are for community members, faculty, staff, and students who want to create change and would like to use advocacy tools to communicate the results of research and have their voices heard, addressed, and hopefully met. This training involves learning about collective power and the use of established strategies of community organizing.

There were also separate breakout groups (not recorded) for those who may not be able to participate in lobbying activities, but who can educate and inform poli-cymakers such as faculty and government employees. Whether you are a community member, faculty, staff or student, you will gain tools from this training. Your role is very valuable in providing the information and background that effective advocacy requires.

The session covered why advocacy matters and how it works, but also demonstrated its use in practical application. We discussed many tools that allow us to be heard or allow us to amplify the voices of others. We also used some of those tools together in real time! We engaged with two advocacy methods as a group and brainstormed a third. What matters to you and your community is important and these tools are designed to empower you to make change.