Legislator Meeting

Elected officials need to hear support for ERA ratification directly from their constituents. Without your input, they will likely defer.

To check their ERA status, go to our House and Senate Scorecards. If support is not indicated, give them a call. Calling your legislator to register your support is crucial, and you might get everything you need over the phone. But in some cases, an in-person meeting is the only way to change an ill-informed "No" to a supportive "Yes."
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HERE'S HOW TO DO IT
  • Begin with their staff.  A few positive interactions with staff personnel can make a HUGE difference in convincing legislators to support your efforts. Start with an introductory phone call to inquire where your legislator stands. If they are supportive, thank them and ask that they sign on to the resolution as a sponsor (they can do so at anytime). If they are not supportive, ask if they know how you might go about changing their mind. That might require a meeting.
  • Bring diverse constituents.  Legislators need to understand that the ERA will benefit all citizens. Show them the ERA has broad support. Encourage men to come, young adults and students of all ages. The next generation has the most to gain. 
  • Be disciplined in your messaging.  Communication should be positive, bipartisan, inclusive and single-issue. Don't get off-topic onto other issues. Focus on the ERA. 
  • Share your story.  Explain why the ERA matters to you, and how it affects you, your family and your community. Maybe you have a 1970's memory of the ERA; or you've faced discrimination at work; or aspirations for your kids. Make it personal.
  • Be timely.  You can contact both legislators now. If the legislature is not in session, you could meet with them locally. Their staff will know the best time and place for a meeting. 
  • Know your material.  The links below will bring you up to speed and provide support.
  • Bring information with you.  Our ERA Brochure can be printed out, tri-folded, and left behind for later review. 
  • Let us know of your meeting.  The earlier we can identify specific legislators as either supportive or not, the better chance we'll have of devising a strategy to get the votes we need.​ Also updates to the scorecards are really helpful.

If you need some coaching, Barbara Hammes of Beaufort has met with her legislator and is available to help talk you thru the process. She can be reached at barb.hammes@gmail.com.
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RESOURCES TO HELP
​For questions or concerns, contact us at equalmeansera@gmail.com.

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