Organizing a lobby day on Parliament Hill can be a powerful way to make your voice heard on important issues. Whether you are part of a grassroots organization, a non-profit, or a business, a lobby day can help you build relationships with decision-makers and advocate for policies that matter to you. Here are some tips to help you plan and execute a successful lobby day on Parliament Hill.
Set a clear goal: Before you start planning your lobby day, it is important to have a clear goal in mind. What do you want to achieve? Are you trying to influence a specific piece of legislation? Are you hoping to raise awareness about a particular issue? Having a clear goal will help you focus your efforts and make the most of your time on Parliament Hill.
Build a coalition: One of the most effective ways to make your voice heard on Parliament Hill is to build a coalition of like-minded organizations and individuals. This can help you amplify your message and demonstrate that your issue has broad support.
Plan your meetings: Once you have a goal and a coalition in place, it is time to start planning your meetings. Reach out to Members of Parliament, Senators, and staff in advance to schedule meetings. Be sure to include key decision-makers, such as committee chairs and members, as well as elected officials who represent your region or have an interest in your issue.
Prepare your materials: It is important to have materials that clearly and effectively communicate your message. This could include fact sheets, brochures, and other informational materials. Be sure to make your materials visually appealing and easy to understand.
Make a schedule: Make a schedule for the day that includes your meetings and any other events you have planned. Be sure to allow enough time for travel between meetings and for unexpected delays.
Follow up: After your lobby day, be sure to follow up with the decision-makers you met with. Send them thank-you notes and remind them of the key points you discussed. Keep them updated on any developments related to your issue and continue to build your relationship with them.
By following these tips, you can plan and execute a successful lobby day on Parliament Hill that helps you achieve your goals and make your voice heard on important issues.
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