Even if you only have a few minutes, you can be an MS activist.
Share your Story
You are the credible expert about the effects of multiple sclerosis in your life. And, none of us are immune from the uninvited or unexpected. What story do you have to tell?
Write your story. Then, rewrite it. Practice sharing it in two minutes or less. Who will you tell your story to? How can you make it relevant to him or her?
Remember, be brief and direct. What change would enhance your quality of life, until the cure for multiple sclerosis is discovered. Illustrate the issue with your testimonial.
Couple your personal, real life experiences, with these facts and figures to explain your issue or opportunity.
Help Raise Awareness
- Find out about your elected officials and start a relationship.
- Download and distribute this MS Activism Brochure, titled "Federal Advocacy."
- Read and comment on the MS activist blog.
Contact Your Public Officials
- Write or Email Your Public Officials: here's a sample letter to make it easy
- Call Your Public Officials: here's a sample phone call to make it easy
Meet with Your Public Officials
You can schedule a meeting with a public official or their staff at any time - and you don’t have to go to Washington, D.C. Every member of Congress has one or more offices in their local district. You can make an appointment or just stop by.
If you’ve had a meeting, we’d love to hear about it. Let us know who you met with, the issue you discussed, and how they responded.
Write a Letter to the Editor
A letter to the editor is an easy way to share your story with the public and call for action. Write a persuasive letter, be thoughtful and polite. Be sure to ask for the action you want. And be brief. Editors are mostly likely to publish a letter no longer than 150-250 words. Remember to include your full name and address.
Call Your Local Talk Radio
Write out what you want to say beforehand. Then keep dialing until you get through. When you do, share your story and be positive. Be clear and concise about the point you want to make. Don’t engage in argument. Say what you want to say, then hang up.
Attend a Town Hall Meeting
Members of Congress hold regular town hall meetings or listening sessions with constituents in their districts. Usually these are held during Congressional recess. Call your legislator’s district office and ask about upcoming town hall meetings. Before attending a meeting, write out the question(s) you want to ask. If you want to talk through an MS issue, call your chapter advocacy staff. If you attend a meeting, we’d love to hear about it.
Thank you for being an MS activist.
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