LOBBYING POLICYMAKERS

Lobbying is often thought of as a dirty word, but that’s because so many lobbyists are hired by corporations to protect business interests above human interests and civil rights.

Corporations aren’t the only ones that hire lobbyists though. Unions and workers’ groups use lobbyists, as do professional associations, schools, and civil liberties organizations like the ACLU of Texas. A lobbyist is simply a person who lobbies to get his or her voice heard with elected officials.

Who represents your interests? Who works for the voice of the people?

We try to protect your civil liberties. But you should fight for your rights too!

In this section, you’ll find some basic tools for lobbying and contacting your elected representatives.

In the Internet era, there’re many ways to stay on top of what politicians are doing and let them how you feel. However, as we become more technologically connected – and bombarded – an old-fashioned face-to-face visit remains an important tool to cut through the noise and make your voice heard.

Here’s a short video from Smitty Smith of Public Citizen, who won the title of “Best People’s Lobbyist” from the Austin Chronicle, describing what a lobbyist does.