Demystifying Lobbying

American citizens are granted a number of rights in the U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment, including free speech and the ability to “petition the government for redress of grievances” — this is lobbying. Advocating for a specific idea, topic, or cause–whether to a local or federal elected official–is something most of us will do at some point in our lives. And this relationship is two-way: elected officials rely on active, knowledgeable citizens to keep them abreast of specific issues. For better or worse, “clicktavisim” –the ability to just click an online petition or tweet at an elected official–is now part of the way we communicate and advocate ideas. But is this the most effective way to get your voice heard in the halls of power? Regardless of what issue you are advocating for, it’s clear that there’s a strategy to be successfully heard and understood–whether you are a lone voice in the street or a massive K Street lobbying firm. This session will help you become a better advocate for your ideas.

Join Civic Series for this special HUBWeek event to better understand lobbying and how you can be more effective communicating to your elected officials. You’ll hear what it’s like to be on the other side of the lobbying and learn how to:

Effectively communicate to elected officials

Become a reliable advocate for your issues

Act and followup when the time is right

Encourage other citizens to rally around your ideas

This session will feature short presentations, a panel discussion, and plenty of time for your questions. The panelists in this session are:

Stefanie Coxe is an activism trainer and political consultant who worked as a “political insider” for nearly 15 years, including serving as an aide to two Massachusetts state representatives and a Member of Congress. She kept meeting people who couldn’t afford a lobbyist – non-profit leaders, town administrators, and community activists – but earnestly wanted to learn how to navigate the world of politics and effectively advocate for their priorities. She has created the Learn to Lobby series to do just that.

Christie Getto Young is the Chief of Staff for Senator DiDomenico. Prior to this position, Christie worked for 10 years as Senior Director of Public Policy at United Way of Massachusetts Bay and Merrimack Valley, where she lobbied on behalf of low-income children and their families, managed grant making for policy and advocacy agencies, and authored several policy reports. Before joining United Way’s staff, Christie practiced law, representing low-income parents in family law cases and working as a law clerk for the Massachusetts Probate & Family Court. Prior to attending law school, she worked as a Research Analyst for the Massachusetts Legislature’s Joint Committee on Human Services & Elderly Affairs.

**Stay for snacks after the event to talk further about the topic with attendees & the speakers!**

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