Return to course: AMAC Action Advocacy Academy: Issues, Principles, and Citizen Engagement
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How to Contact Elected Officials Quiz
What is one of the first things you should do when contacting an elected official?
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Demand to speak only to the elected official
Avoid saying where you live
Identify yourself as a constituent
Begin with criticism before explaining the issue
Which of the following makes an advocacy message more effective?
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A long complaint with no clear request
An anonymous message with no location or issue
A message sent only after every vote is over
A clear issue, respectful tone, personal reason, and specific request
Why is it useful to include a personal reason or story in your message?
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It helps elected officials understand how the issue affects real people
It replaces the need to be respectful
It makes the message less credible
It should only be used by professional lobbyists
When is advocacy usually most effective?
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Years after the issue is over
Only when posted on social media
Before a vote, hearing, deadline, or decision
Only when no specific action is requested
Which behavior should citizen advocates avoid?
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Being respectful to staff
Making a specific request
Explaining why the issue matters
Using personal insults, threats, or false claims