If you’re meeting with your elected representative, take time to understand Boilermaker issues before your visit. The Department of Government Affairs has an office in Washington, D.C., and staff there work hard to keep current on issues. They also build relationships with policy makers and allies who share Boilermaker concerns. Not only do they ensure Boilermaker leadership is informed of and connected to important issues, but they curate resources for members including fact sheets outlining key points, toolkits, information on political leaders and more. When in doubt, contact the Department of Government Affairs at (202) 756-2868.
Keep it simple
Often, legislators are bombarded multiple people who have multiple agendas on multiple topics. Your best bet to get your message through all that clutter is to keep it simple. Leave behind an information piece that has more details, whether it’s a fact sheet or a brochure.
Do your research
Before you meet with a policy maker, investigate them. Research what committees they’re on, how they’ve voted in the past and what they’ve said at speaking engagements. Not only will you find their positions on certain issues, but you might also discover some personal issues and connections you can refer to when you meet. Getting personal grabs their attention and can make your visit memorable.
Find common ground
In addition to personal connections, find common ground on the Boilermaker issues they are more likely to agree with. A vehemently anti-union representative may be open to topics in the energy sector or in promoting the construction of data centers. So, instead of fighting with them on something they won’t care about, advocate for what they’re more likely to support.
Don’t go alone
Like an apprentice learns from journeymen, a Boilermaker who’s passionate about and comfortable with politicians can teach the next generation. In addition to training the next generation of Boilermaker advocates, having two people in a meeting provides relief to both and adds another voice to the discussion. It’s less pressure when two or more Boilermakers meet with a lawmaker.
Practice
Begin to have conversations about political issues with people you’re comfortable with, as well as with friends who may have differing viewpoints. Make sure you have solid knowledge about the issues. Practice your messages before meeting with lawmakers to determine what talking points work best.
Attend LEAP/contact the State Legislative Program
The LEAP conference is the perfect place to learn about Boilermaker issues, lobby legislators and even get a crash course on the political process. In addition to attending LEAP, stay up to date on local and state issues through the State Legislative Program. Contact them at IBB_stateleg@boilermakers.org. And for national LEAP issues go www.boilermakers.org/leap.
Your vote counts
Make sure you are registered to vote. Promote registration and voting to your Boilermaker brothers and sisters. Understand the issues and politicians that impact the union and Boilermaker work. Then make sure you get out and vote.
Politics doesn’t have to be hard or daunting. Getting involved and making your viewpoint known mainly involves self-education and practice. Good luck!
