Our goal is to build a strong, inclusive, multi-racial group of activists who are ready to stand up and fight for women – and the families who rely on them. We simply can’t make the impact we want to without more help, so we hope you’ll give us some of your time to learn more about what you can do to help us make real changes for families.
One important thing about getting involved in advocacy with us is just to do what you can – every little bit helps. So we hope you will join us for this whole series, but if you can only make it to one or two of the trainings, that’s okay too. If we all do what we can, it adds up.
You can register for the entire 4-session series. Or, if you’d like to register for a single training, just click the link that will take you to the registration page for that training:
1- Building Your Voice | Wednesday, October 7th, 6-8:00 p.m. (already happened!)
After a general advocacy overview, we’ll focus on one of the key skills of activism – telling your own story. Everyone has one, but we don’t often tell them. Learn why this is so important, and leave with an understanding of how to connect your personal experiences with the themes of the larger movement.
2- Using Your Voice | Wednesday, November 4th, 6-8:00 p.m.
Spokespeople – those of us who are struggling with these work/family issues right now – are the heart of our work and are critical to making sure decision makers understand what our families are going through. In this training we will delve into specific ways to be a more effective spokesperson. You will learn how to call your legislator, lobby him/her in person, write a letter to the editor of a local paper, talk to press, and testify at a hearing.
3 – Raising More Voices | Wednesday, December 2nd, 6-8:00 p.m.
We also need leaders who will reach out to their networks and invite people to get involved. In this training, we will explore how historical racial barriers intersect with barriers faced by women. You will also learn how to collect other people’s stories to help build a story bank that elevates the voices of those most excluded by today’s laws and systems.
4- Action!| (date and time to be determined by group)
We’ll put our skills into action by planning a couple lobbying visits to talk with our legislators about issues that we really care about. We promise to make sure you feel prepared and have the support you need to enjoy these visits.
If you have questions, you can reach us at:
- Sharon@familyforward.org or 503 828 8316
- Ashnie@familyforward.org or 503.928.6789
To register for childcare, please email danielle@familyforward.org one week before the event to secure your spot. Please include names and ages of your children.
We look forwarding to seeing you!