Your voice matters exactly to the extent you think it does.
Things are easier said than done, or so the old adage goes, and we couldn't agree more. That's why we do The GOOD 30-Day Challenge (#30DaysofGOOD), a monthly attempt to live better. Our challenge for February? GOOD citizenship.
Contact a local elected leader on an issue of interest to you.
Your voice matters exactly to the extent you think it does. If you want to be heard by your elected representatives, speak to them. As a citizen, it is your privilege to ask a question or voice a complaint, whether by making an appointment, showing up at a public meeting or writing an email or letter. Think hard about how you frame your question so that it connects to what s/he is working on, present some context in case s/he doesn't know the issue, and make sure the payoff of your question is specific and actionable.
You can be a lobby of one! If you decide to call, there's a good chance you'll talk to a staff member. It's this person's job to keep a record of your call and your opinion on an issue, but not to make decisions. Be polite and considerate.
If you decide to write a letter or email, use respectful forms of address.
Forms of Address Examples
To a Mayor:
Honorable…
Mayor of the City of (City and State)
Dear Sir or Madam, or My dear Mayor...
To a State Senator or Representative
Honorable…
The State Senate (Name of State Capital City)
Dear Sir or Madam
Learn how to live like a citizen at The Guiding Lights Weekend conference on creative citizenship March 8-10 in Seattle.
Propose an idea to promote GOOD Citizenship where you live for a chance to win $500 to make it happen.
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