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Top Ten Tips for Advocacy (Attitude is EVERYTHING!)
1. Be proactive, not reactive! Plan for the future, anticipate issues/problems, and think long term. 2. Be a problem-solver, not a problem-maker! If you have a problem to discuss, always have possible solutions. If you don't, others' solutions might be worse than the original problem.
3. Think win/win, not win/lose! Use strategies that allow everyone to feel they’ve “won." 4. Be involved in “regular” activities! Join local groups, volunteer in your community, help plan organizational parties, etc. Let others see you as a "regular" person, not just a "Disability Advocate." Develop friendships with people who don't have disabilities or who work in the disability field. They can be your best allies and advocates. 5. Develop and nurture relationships with key people. Take the time to get to know people who are active and involved, in person or over the phone. Talk to them regularly, not just when there are problems. Have regular, informal meetings with others working for common goals or on similar issues. Take them to lunch! 6. Change the atmosphere to change the outcomes! Be creative in planning meetings or organized activities. Be active, not passive. Have meetings in neutral territory. Be festive and have refreshments. Food is the great equalizer! 7. Prepare yourself before the meeting. Be familiar with materials that will be discussed. Remember, you will have an intimate knowledge of some things that will be on the table. You bring a valuable perspective that is critical to reaching goals that will impact systems and benefit people with disabilities. Bring suggestions, modifications, adaptations, and new ideas. Don’t be afraid to speak up. 8. Remember to use these Keys to success! • Identify & Value Your Allies • Combine Style & Substance • Respect & Teach Your Adversaries • Practice Finesse & Diplomacy 10. This is about improving the future for people with disabilities! When the going gets rough and emotions are high, don't take things personally. Hold your head high, maintain your composure, and focus on what's really important. It’s NOT about egos, winning/losing, who's right or who's wrong! Excerpted and adapted from the May 1997 document by Kathie Snow, |
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