Grassroots Advocacy at Work

Most Americans become frustrated with the local, state and/or federal government at some point in time. And usually they are frustrated with all three governments at the same time because of the direct effect many of the actions of the federal government have on state and local laws and regulations. Acting on that frustration is what grassroots advocacy is all about. Whatever the vehicle used to communicate with the relevant elected officials, your message demonstrates the depth and breadth of constituent opposition (or support) for a position and gives legislators an added degree of confidence in their positions.

To facilitate direct contact between NUCA members and their states’ federal lawmakers NUCA holds an annual Washington Summit. Members travel from across America to attend a legislative briefing and collect their talking points from the Government Relations staff before going to Capitol Hill to talk about the major legislative issues that impact the utility contracting industry. We provide the factual information needed to back up the association’s positions on the issues; all you need to bring to make a difference is yourself and your real-life stories and experience.

Even though meetings are scheduled ahead of time, schedules change and in some instances members meet with the officials’ staff instead. Since congressional staffers are responsible for helping lawmakers weigh the pros and cons of various pieces of legislation and are often instrumental in formulating representatives’ positions on the issues, meeting with them is still time well spent. As the saying goes, “All politics is local.” That means hearing from people back home does in fact influence an official’s decision-making. (To read more about the recent Washington Summit, please click here)

I too become frustrated with my elected officials, but by participating in the process of grassroots advocacy, I have the satisfaction of knowing that I’ve provided them with a perspective on the issues literally gained in the trenches. So that they can make better informed decisions, your elected officials need to hear from you. An e-mail is good, a letter on company letterhead is better, but nothing equals a face-to-face visit.

And don’t ever think, “Why would they listen to me?” Trust me. What you think does matter. You’re not only a voting constituent, but also an employer in their state or district. I invite you to give yourself an additional edge by becoming an active member of the National Utility Contractors Association. When it comes to defending and advancing the industry in the legislative/regulatory arenas, we’re tenacious and relentless!

Regards,


     Lyle Schellenberg