
(or How to Change the World in 10 Easy Steps)
By Ben Gomberg
Bicycle issues are often ignored. Change can happen,
however, by asserting our positions. These pointers, learned through
many years of successful advocacy, may help.
1. Set reasonable, specific and
achievable goals.
2. Involve as many groups as possible.
"Coalitions" succeed because they represent more people
and multiple interests. One person can be easily ignored; coalitions
can't.
3. Know the political and administrative
context. How are decisions made? Who makes them? Who controls the
budgets? What opportunities are provided for public input?
4. Don't be afraid to contact
the appropriate politicians. They value your opinion. Besides, it's
their job to represent you.
5. Do your homework beforehand.
Even better, do their homework. Stress dollar savings and alternative
funding sources - "the bottom line". Demonstrate that
your proposal is reasonable and affordable.
6. A meeting is better than a
letter, a letter is better than a phone call, and a phone call is
much better than a name on a petition.
7. With all the contacts, begin
by summarizing your position/request. Be brief. focus on the main
issues. Use statistics and experiences to support your argument.
Keep your tone positive; anger alienates people.
8. Cultivate media support. Newspaper
articles in particular have tremendous political clout. Capture
media interest by staging unusual events, with "photo opportunities"
for newspapers and "sound bites" for television coverage.
consider having a spokesperson --perhaps a local politician or celebrity
- to champion your cause.
9. Be persistent. Any organization
- especially a government bureaucracy- is resistant to Change.
10. Nurture positive energy. Thank
people for their support. Respect different opinions. Cultivate
your allies. Avoid antagonizing people and organizations. Celebrate
victories. Make sure that you have funwhile you change the world!
|