Grassroots/Grasstops Campaigns - COVID and Non-COVID Campaigns
Whether you’re focused on Covid-19 issues or still trying to work on the ones you were focused on beforehand, Congress and their staff are still listening to constituents.
In the absence of live events your digital advocacy and directory tools become essential. With most people working from home and without the full range of normal activities available to them it’s a perfect time to launch a petition or grassroots/grasstops advocacy campaign.
With less distraction from in-person meetings and more people focused on this means of advocacy than every before, targeting the state legislatures that are still in session, Congress, or federal agencies that continue to move regulations can lead to higher response rates than usual.
Segments that are most effected by the economic effects of the Coronavirus including healthcare, travel, retail, restaurants, gaming, and other hospitality areas have energized core constituencies that are worried about their livelihood, and policymakers need to hear their personal stories to make necessary arrangements to get them through the crisis.
Launching a campaign either as a solo organization or a coordinated coalition can go a long way in getting essential government aid. The moving legislative and regulatory vehicles are massive right now and organizations have the opportunity to insert provisions on non-COVID related items, and campaign for their organization’s interests simultaneously.
The same goes for making accommodations to help the response efforts, all of which require a policy change and result in significant spending and tax impact such as liquor companies making hand sanitizers, medical students providing healthcare services, or even restaurants providing carryout adult beverages.
Advocacy Communication to Policymakers - Think Outside the Box
Your organization needs to provide a set of priorities to policymakers as these far-reaching changes are considered and negotiated. What are the essential needs of your organization? What are your non-negotiables? Sending a priorities list, a COVID-19 Industry Impact Statement, or sending recommendations on legislative and regulatory proposals is a resource to legislators and staff alike.
Developing a communication plan on behalf of your organization to policymakers will keep your organization top of mind and also work to advance your initiatives in the midst of the crisis.
You may have been working on a campaign with a closing window of opportunity and need to communicate your non COVID-19 legislative and regulatory fixes to the appropriate body. If you fit this description, proceed with caution. It’s important not to appear tone deaf to the situation, but you can still have an impact on your core issues during this time by sending an update or asking for an update.
In many cases it’s likely COVID-19 may have exacerbated the challenges facing your organization or industry, and there may be an angle to approach both collectively. Using your software to connect with key contacts during this time is important. Schedule virtual meetings, briefings, and roundtable discussions as discussed below.