If your legislators don’t hear from you, they assume you approve of their actions. This is why your voice matters at the Arizona Capitol! Here's how you can make that happen.
First things first: You need to know what your house and senate district is and the names of your legislators.
Ways to contact your legislators
1. Call them or write to them
- Plan out what you will say. When preparing a script or talking points for yourself, use the "Problem, Solution, Action" model.
- Let them know what the problem that compelled you to reach out to them is.
- Present the solution you are advocating for.
- End by asking them to take action as your legislator. (i.e. “Vote yes on HB/SB xxxx!”)
- Tell a personal story and how your legislators' actions will personally impact you or your loved ones.
- Remember to mention the bill number (if any) and why you are calling or writing.
- Make it short and sweet. Get to your point quickly and concisely.
2. Meet them in person
Here are some tips on how to prepare for a meeting with your legislator:
- Make sure you have a scheduled meeting with your legislator.
- Call your legislator’s office and request a meeting time about the issue you’re concerned about.
- We recommend you follow up with your legislator and their assistant to confirm your meeting.
- When you arrive at your meeting, be flexible and patient.
- Sometimes legislators may be pulled into a meeting or have scheduled meetings with other constituents.
- Attend your meeting prepared to advocate about the issue.
- Make sure to establish clear goals for yourself on what you want to tell your legislator and what action you want them to take.
- Don't be afraid to take notes and bring them with you to your meeting.
- After your meeting, send a follow-up email.
- Thank your legislator for their time and reiterate your concerns. Include any follow up questions if you have any.
3. Engage with them on social media
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Follow and comment on your legislator’s page.
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Ask them where they stand on issues.
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Urge them to support or oppose bills.
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Share our content on social media @acluaz — X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Instagram — and tag your legislator.
Request to Speak (RTS)
During the legislative session, the ACLU of Arizona is busy defending your rights at the state Capitol. If you cannot attend hearings or speak at committee hearings in person, Request to Speak (RTS) is a great way to let our state legislators and politicians know we are watching their votes on certain bills. RTS allows you to publicly support or oppose bills from the comfort of your own home!