We are working toward the liberation and freedom of all people—freedom from gender-based violence, freedom to access the information we need and the freedom to make decisions about our own bodies. These freedoms will allow us all to have the opportunities to reach our full potential. To reach gender and racial equity in our communities, we need your voice on these issues. You can follow the bills impacting gender justice here.
In addition to testifying in-person during a committee hearing, there are four easy ways to engage on bills from wherever you are:
Using your voice—even if you have just five minutes—to share your lived experience can be impactful in shaping a state senator’s understanding of, and position on, any issue. Make the time count by contacting your senator directly to share your perspective, expertise and experience on the issues. You can also use your voice to hold elected officials accountable, letting them know when you are thankful or disappointed in a vote they took (however the vote goes). Find your senator and look up their email or phone number online.
The Legislature has added a new way for you to share your position on bills—online comments! And this year, your online comment can be included in the public hearing record if it is submitted by noon the workday before a committee hearing! Be part of the process and use your voice to advocate for the issues important to you. If you haven’t submitted an online comment before, no worries—check out these easy steps to make it happen!
Sharing your thoughts on issues online can sometimes feel like shouting into a void. However, you are also signaling to others that you care, that the issue impacts you and that there is something to do about it (like contacting your senator and submitting online comments). We’ve created graphics to make sharing your own social media easy. Download images today and share away!
Your experience matters. By writing a letter to the editor of your local newspaper, you are helping others to relate to the issue as well. These articles help shape public opinion and can even reach elected officials!
Together, we can make a big impact for our community through public policies that support all those who experience gender-based oppression. Let’s go!