Petitions:  A formal, written statement asking a governmental official to do or not to do something.  People circulating a petition try to get as many other citizens as possible to sign the petition in order to make it more effective.

Lawsuits:  When a lawsuit is filed, the issue will go to court.  After studying both sides of the issue, a judge or jury will decide the result.

Peaceful Public Protests:  This might involve a meeting, picketing, or boycotting. (ex. A sit-in)

Voting:  Those who disagree with an elected official can organize a campaign to encourage citizens to vote for another person whom they support at the next election.

Oral/Written Communication to the Media  Citizens can write letters to express their dissent to the editor of a newspaper or other publication or communication with other forms of media.

Oral/Written Communication to Public Officials  This is a very effective way for citizens to express their opinions on subjects that interest them.

Referendum:  This enables citizens to vote to approve or reject laws passed by the legislature.