the elections are finally over. And while no one is ever completely happy with the outcome, what concerned citizens do after the votes are counted is what really counts. Elections are just one event in the dynamic democratic process. And just as people who don't bother to vote forfeit their right to complain, so do voters who don't take an active interest in the actions of government officials after they are elected.
Folks who feel alienated from their local government often don't know how to start taking an active part in civic life. As a self-taught citizen activist, I've learned a few things that anyone can do to make a real difference in their community.
It's important to pick your issues carefully and have realistic goals, because to be effective it is best to follow an item through the entire public process. That can sometimes take years, so deal with things that you know will hold your interest. Take advantage of the internet for doing research. You'll need money for copying, mailing and long distance phone calls. You'll also need patience and a lot of stamina.
As local, state and federal agencies for assistance with their regulations. Part of their job is to help you understand their specialized vocabulary and regulations. When you talk to people on the phone keep a dated log with notes of their exact words in case you need to quote them or they later contradict what they've said to you.
Go to public meetings, watch and listen. You notice a lot more when you're there than you see on television. When an issue you are following comes up at a meeting, go and speak to the commission or board. Don't be intimidated and remember that it gets easier each time you speak in public.
Agendas for meetings may be prepared only a week in advance, and public notice has to be given in the newspaper just five days prior to a meeting. This doesn't give you any time for reading background information, so you have to follow the progress of a project or issue continually and be prepared to address it at any time.
It's easier and more fun to work with a team of people if you can, so ask like-minded people to go with you to meetings. Because there are usually time limits on speakers, you have to be concise and well organized. If an issue is complex, different people can each use their time to convey different points so that the entire issue is covered. If people aren't able to attend the meeting, they can usually send a short statement to be read into the record. Always be sure of your facts and check your sources of information or you'll lose credibility.
Provide the public with accurate information by writing letters to the editors of local newspapers. Find a reporter who is interested and keep them informed of progress on issues. The goal is to have citizens who are well informed contacting their elected officials so the people we vote into office are not operating in a vacuum and recognize real community needs.
Most importantly, think in long spans of time because things can be very frustrating if you only look at the present. Try never to take anything personally and avoid personal attacks. Don't hold grudges, and remember you're dealing with issues.
Nothing is more rewarding than working to improve the civic life of your community. And what could be more fun? People who attend a lot of public meetings will tell you, "you can't buy entertainment like that."