EMILY JOHNSON AND HILARY WIECK GUEST COLUMNISTS
Last week we had the opportunity to head down to Des Moines to advocate and lobby at the State Capitol as a part of our Social Policy class.
We were able to choose a bill or issue of our own interest that fell within the social work field to advocate for. We participated in workshops during the morning on what were “hot topics” within the 2010 legislative session. During the afternoon, we had the chance to meet with Iowa senators and representatives to discuss and inform them about our issue. Because of our empowering experience, we felt the need to inform others of the importance that advocacy has within our society.
Advocacy is an important part of being a responsible voter. If there is an issue, idea or cause that you feel needs addressed or changed, then you as a voter have the right and responsibility to voice your concern.
Advocacy is a tool that is used in our society to bring about change and that change will not occur if we do not take a stand or utilize our voice to its full potential.
We participated in just one form of advocacy last week and there are numerous other ways that you can participate too.
You could write an editorial for a newspaper, write a letter to your representative or senator about your issue, and raise awareness for a cause by attending or holding an event or join in on a protest that you feel strongly about.
Some groups on Wartburg’s campus who are involved in advocating for certain issues are Shades of Orange, Student Senate, Students for Peace and Justice and EARTH.
Also, don’t forget to vote as that is one way of advocating as well!