I have participated in many community advocacy projects but have limited leadership experience, so could use some advice. I am trying to organize community and parent activists within our small Montana town, to fight a recent school board decision to abolish mask requirements (and other other COVID-prevention measures) within our public school. Somehow our board has been infiltrated by an anti-science group of pandemic-denying conspiracy theorists. We are not too far from a university town, so I have already assembled a group of pro-science, progressive community members to advocate for the health and safety of our kids, teachers, and community at large. However, I am struggling to know where to begin in terms of this public health advocacy. I am drafting an op-ed for our local newspapers, which we'll all sign, but I'd appreciate any advice/ resources you can provide re: next steps in advocacy/ community organizing. Thank you so much!
Hi, What a great question! It sounds like you have already pulled together many of the elements of an effective initiative. There are several tools in the Community Toolbox that I think you will find helpful. Most to your point is the section on "Principles of Advocacy" (chapter 30). Really the whole section on Organizing for Advocacy (Chapters 30-36) and Toolbox 10 should have helpfu resources for you. Toolbox 11 on influencing Policy Development can also be useful. I would also recommend reading through Chapter 1 (the model of change), and especially, section 3 on building capacity. Another suggestion would be to find community organizing resources in your area. I have been impressed with the work of a national organization called Faith in Action, which is a network of grassroots organizing from a faith based perspective. I noticed that there is a chapter of the organization in Missoula, Montana, called Faith and Climate Action. I don't know if they are anywhere near you, but may be able to offer some advice and/or resources. You can also search other community organizing groups in your area and reach out to them for suggestions. You are doing such important and difficult work! I've learned that it really helps to supplement the kinds of resources you'll find on the Community Toolbox with as much local wisdom as possible, Best of luck!