Lobbying for Social Change

Who can Lobby? There is a common notion that the government is only open to a select group of individuals, however, this notion must be dismantled. In reality our political system is incredible accessible. Therefore, there is no reason why people of all backgrounds should not lobby for what they believe in. ANYONE CAN LOBBY EFFECTIVELY! Our ability to have our voices heard, outside of elections, is what makes Canada’s democracy so strong. Amanda Sussman, The Art of the Poosible, McClelland & Stewart, 2009.

How to get started? If we want to see changes to policy we need more reformers, just like you. The most direct route to social progress is working through the government. In order to do so, it is important that your point of view is present when it counts. It is also very important to first know how your government works. Sussman (2009)

Overview of the Federal Legislative Process. Getting started… It is first important to understand the process in which a proposal to an MP must go through before it can become law. The process by which a typical government initiated bill becomes law involves many steps.

The Federal Legislative Process in Canada A. DEFINITIONS Public Bills These are proposals for laws that will affect the public in general. Most public bills are introduced by Government Ministers. Private Bills These are limited in scope: they concern an individual or group of individuals only. They confer a right on some person or group, or relieve them of a responsibility.

The Federal Legislative Process in Canada B. POLICY PROPOSAL –Most legislation originates with the Government. Policy proposal requiring legislation is submitted to Cabinet by Minister(s).

The Federal Legislative Process in Canada C. CABINET Policy proposal is considered by the appropriate Cabinet committee and recommendations are made to the Cabinet. If Cabinet approves, the responsible Ministry issues drafting instructions to the Legislation Section of the Department of Justice. Draft bill is presented to Cabinet for approval. If approved it is ready to be introduced in Parliament.

The Federal Legislative Process in Canada D. PARLIAMENT –Bill is read through thoroughly three times and is debated and voted upon by members of Parliament. –Once bill has been read 3 times in the House, it is sent to the Senate for its consideration.

The Federal Legislative Process in Canada E. Royal Assent –Bill is presented to the Governor General for assent. –Governor General may assent to Bill in the Queen's name, withhold assent or reserve assent. –When Bill is given Royal Assent it becomes law.

The Federal Legislative Process in Canada F. IN FORCE –Statute is in force: upon Royal Assent, or when it is proclaimed by the Governor General, or On a day specified in the act Government of Canada, 2007

Finding your MP There are a number of ways you can find the MP you are looking for. To quickly find the contact information of your local Member of Parliament please visit to the following link: repertoires/direct-eng.html

What next? Now that you have a good background on the Canadian Legislator and know how to access your local Members of Parliament, it is also important to understand how to be an effective lobbyer.

Ten steps to effective lobbying 1. Understand the issue. 2. Pick your targets. 10. Follow up. 9. Hold the meeting. 6. Determine what you’re asking for. 8. Expect the unexpected. 7. Prepare. 3. Know your targets. 5. Know the political climate. 4. Plan the meeting.

Why lobby? form letter, Postcard, petition Phone call Handwritten letter In-person lobby visit

Step 1: Understand the issue ► Know the issue well enough to talk convincingly about it. ► Create your “rap” and key messages. ► Give the members of Parliament factual information.

Step 2: Pick your targets Tier 1 targets: ► Your own elected officials! Tier 2 targets: ► Key legislators on relevant committees ► Legislators who have demonstrated interest in the issue ► Legislators who are more senior than others

Step 3: Know your targets! What communities do they represent? What issues do they care about? What political realities do they face?

Know your targets: Research Web resources ► Start Local ► Know their interests: Biography Press Releases Relevant Legislation

Step 4: Plan the meeting ► Be polite. ► Call and explain who you are and the purpose of seeking a meeting. ► Ask how best to schedule a meeting. ► Ensure that you speak to the right person. ► Be prepared. The staff may ask for a fax or requesting a meeting.

Step 5: Know the political climate ► Make convincing arguments. ► Target the right decision makers. ► Act at the right time. ► Design a strategy that will win. Understanding the political climate can help you do the following:

Step 6: Determine what you are asking for Step 1: What is your concrete “ask” ? ► A piece of legislation you want them to sponsor or reject ► A sign-on letter ► A media piece Step 2: How will you ask for it? ► How can you target the ask to be more attractive to the legislator? ► Know the issues that the target cares about – politically and personally. (For example, what committees is he or she on? Was he or she a Peace Corps volunteer?) ► Start off with something small as you begin to build a relationship.

Step 7: Prepare for meeting ► Make an agenda for the meeting. ► Follow the three C’s: Connection | Start with a personal connection. Why is this issue important to you? Get them talking – ask them how much they know about the issue. Content | Deliver your talking points based on their level of knowledge/position. Commitment | Ask them to commit to a particular action. Tell them you will follow up with them. If lobbying in a group: ► Decide speaking roles ► Write up talking points ► Anticipate questions/concerns from staffer ► Practice with your group ► Create a “leave-behind packet”

Ways to be prepared Agenda for meeting Jane opens and thanks the staffer for his or her time. (Always start off the meeting by asking the staffer how much he or she knows on the issue.) Group members introduce themselves (giving name, location, and profession/interest in issue). Jane states reason for being there. Group goes over personal stories. Jane sums up. Do your homework Have something nice to say about something the Congressperson has done in his or her district. Bring a paper and pen to take notes. Have your two to three talking points written down in case you forget them. Be prepared to answer questions about your position, but remember– you don’t have to be an expert! Have two leave-behind packets prepared.

Step 8: Expect the unexpected ► Be flexible with your time (meeting cancellations, starting late, etc.). ► Make sure to leave your cell phone number. ► Remember that the staffer may or may not know a lot about the issue. ► Know all the talking points about the various issues.

Step 9: Hold the meeting Dress nicely. Open the meeting with a smile. Gather a few minutes early. Build a relationship.

Step 10: Follow up If you don’t follow up, it is like the meeting never happened. ► Send a thank-you or letter for the meeting. ► Send any information the staffer requested. ► Keep updated on any developments on issues. ► Follow up with the staffer on your asks.

Questions? Comments? Concerns?

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