Why is Advocacy Afternoon important?
Legislators and policymakers want to hear from youth directly impacted by the decisions made in Sacramento. One of the best ways to gain support for better school health services is to share your experiences and opinions.
I’ve never done this before. How will I know what to do and say?
We will host two optional webinars prior to the afternoon that will help you prepare for your visits. You will also be in a team with other youth so you can support each other. Plus, the most important part of these visits is sharing information that you already know – your experiences, your perspective, and the need you see for school-based health. Please also check out this Legislative Visit Guidebook created by one of our Youth Board members.
Advocacy 101 webinars:
- Saturday, April 24, 1-2 pm
- Monday, April 26, 12:30-1:30 pm
How will virtual Advocacy Afternoon work?
We will all come together in a Zoom meeting to prepare and get excited for our meetings. Then, we will divide into predetermined “teams” using breakout rooms. At scheduled meeting times, legislators and/or their staff will join your team in the breakout room for the meeting. Meetings are generally 15-20 minutes long and you will likely have 2-3 meetings.
Who will we be meeting with?
Most of the meetings will be with legislative staff – people who work for an Assembly Member or state Senator and support the legislator around education or health care policy issues. We will do our best to schedule meetings with legislators that represent the area where your school is located.
What technology do I need to participate?
You will need to sign-up for a free Zoom account (using the same email you use to register). We highly recommend participating on a computer and you’ll need internet access. There are also apps available to use Zoom on a smartphone or tablet.
Do I need to get dressed up? Or turn on my video for the meetings?
No, you do not need to get dressed up for these meetings. And, no, you are not required to turn on your video for the meetings, although we do encourage it so the legislators and/or staff can connect with you.
