Your elected officials represent you, but they can’t do this effectively if they don’t know what you want.

The Arc of Washington State offers examples of ways to become a trusted resource for legislators and other elected officials on issues that affect your life.

These are tried and true methods for successful advocacy. Take that first step to write a letter or email, make a phone call, attend a hearing or an Advocacy Day.

It’s about building a relationship with those who make decisions that affect your life. Lawmakers look to their constituents for reliable information on issues before them.

With so many issues to learn about including education, health care, transportation, the economy, state institutions versus community services—your knowledge of developmental disabilities helps them to do their job!There’s a fine line between keeping your legislators current on developing issues and over-working your relationship with too much repetition.

If you keep in regular contact with your legislators, be sure to always provide fresh, useful information, such as the status of a bill or budget item on which you need their support or assistance. Legislation changes often and quickly throughout the session, as other interest groups weigh in and amendments are made. Be sure to stay on top of these changes and Take Action!

Impacting government may feel overwhelming no matter how long you’ve been advocating, but others are available to guide you along the
way. From parent coalitions and self advocacy organizations to state and local chapters of The Arc — we’re here to help you have a voice. It only takes a few simple steps to get into the action:

• Be informed. Sign up for News to Know email updates: www.arcwa.org, then scroll to the bottom of the page.
• Join The Arc's Action Network: www.arcwa.org/action-center
• Find information and events on The Arc’s Facebook group. www.facebook.com/TheArc-WA State
• Become part of a chapter of The Arc, a parent coalition, self advocacy or other group: www.arcwa.org/connections
• Participate in Virtual Advocacy Days: www.arcwa.org/advocacy-days
• make phone calls, write emails and visit your legislators in person.

Change is made by those who show up!