Hey NubianNewYorkers... my family, my friends..
Adorable ones, I
hope you’re all feeling bright today! I want to talk to you about
something close to my heart-how each of us, born right here in the
United States, has the power to shape our future by speaking up to our
government.
Your voice, my friend, is a treasure. When we use it
together, we can create the kind 
of world we want to live in.
Sometimes,
it can feel like only rich people or big companies get to talk to
politicians, but that’s not true at all. When you and your family reach
out to your local representative, you are showing them what real people
in their community care about.
If something happens-a problem
at school, in your neighborhood, or even a family emergency-it helps so
much to already have a friendly connection with your local politician’s
office.
They are there to help you, and when they know your name and
your story, they can listen and act even faster. Lobbying isn’t just for
the powerful, it’s for everyone, and your voice can make a big
difference!
Let me show you how you can get your voice heard-this is called “lobbying,” and it’s easier than you think:
1. Find Out Who Represents You
First
things first, adorable one: you need to know who your local politicians
are. Even if you didn’t vote for them, they still work for you! You can
find them online using these helpful sites:
USAGov Elected Officials Tool
https://www.usa.gov/elected-officials
House of Representatives “Find Your Representative”
https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative
270toWin “Who Represents Me?”
https://www.270towin.com/who-represents-me/
Ballotpedia “Who Represents Me?”
https://ballotpedia.org/Who_represents_me
2. Plan Your Meeting OR Communicate Online
Politicians
are busy, but remember, my family, their job is to listen to you. Check
their website or call their office to find out when you can meet them.
Many hold “town hall meetings” where anyone can speak up. Mark it on
your calendar and get ready!
AND/OR
U.S. citizens have several effective ways to communicate online with their elected representatives:
Email:
Most elected officials have official websites with contact forms or
published email addresses. Sending a personalized, concise email is one
of the fastest and most effective ways to share your views. Always
include your name and address so they know you are a constituent, and
clearly state the issue and your request
.
Official Contact Tools:
Websites
like the USA.Gov 'Elected Officials Tool, help you find your
representatives and their official contact information, including email
and web forms
.
Social Media:
Many members of Congress
and local officials actively use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and
Instagram to interact with constituents. You can tag them in posts,
reply to their updates, or send direct messages. Social media is public,
so your message may get more attention, but always keep it respectful
and focused
.
Advocacy Platforms:
Services like
Resistbot let you send messages to your representatives by texting,
using Messenger, or other chat apps. Resistbot will find your officials
for you and deliver your message as a fax, email, or letters
.
3. Know What to Say
Think
about what matters most to you-maybe it’s helping families in need or
making your neighborhood safer. Be clear and keep your message short.
Know a few facts about your issue, and have a simple request, like
asking them to support a law or speak up about your concern.
4. Take Notes and Pictures
When
you meet your representative, write down what you talked about,
especially if they promise to do something. Take a photo together! It’s a
great memory, and sometimes the local newspaper might want to share
your story.
5. Follow Up
After your meeting, send a thank you
note. Ask if they’ve done what they promised. And don’t forget to tell
others in our community about your experience-when you share your
journey, you inspire others to find their voice, too.
Remember,
my adorable ones, thinking ahead and taking these steps shows true
wisdom and care for our future. Lobbying isn’t just for adults or
experts-it’s for everyone, and especially for thoughtful, caring people
like you.
I’m so proud of you, my friends. Let’s keep lifting
each other up and making our voices heard. Together, there’s nothing we
can’t do!
With all my admiration,
E-MAN
