The ACLU of Massachusetts Advocates Academy is an ongoing series of workshops and trainings created to inspire, educate and mobilize a new generation of civil liberties advocates.
We’re here to:
- Demystify public advocacy
- Teach practical tools
- Support anyone taking action and flexing their democracy muscle
Below are materials from past sessions. Future sessions are listed here: https://www.mobilize.us/aclum
If you have an idea for a workshop, email us a info@aclum.org
MATERIALS AND RECORDINGS
Preparing Written and Oral Testimony
April 26, 2023
It is the job of our elected officials to hold public hearings and solicit public comment on a wide variety of issues. Whether you are advocating for an issue at your local town hall meeting or at the state legislature, learning how to prepare written and oral testimony is a foundational skill that will help you be a more effective advocate.
At this Advocates Academy training, we review how to approach preparing written and oral testimony and the key components that will make your testimony effective.
Resources:
Preparing Oral and Written Testimony Slide Deck
Lead Where You Live
March 11, 2023
They say all politics is local, but have you ever wondered where to get started? This workshop explored how local government works and how to take the first steps to make change for your community.
Resources:
Municipal Worksheet to get started understanding your local government
Massachusetts State Legislature 101: How does it all work anyway?
February 23, 2023
Have you ever wondered how laws are made in Massachusetts? Have you been interested in a bill or issue but you're not sure how to track its progress?
If so, you're not alone. This training looked at the structure of our state legislature, what happens over the course of our 2-year legislative session, and different scenarios for how a bill becomes law.
Hosted in collaboration with the Boston Public Library.
Resources: