As heightened political awareness spikes a greater interest in politics nationwide, more people than ever are interested and eager to get involved but aren’t sure where to start.
One of the easiest ways for people to engage in the political process is by getting in touch with their elected officials.
Letters and e-mails sent directly to legislators are a very useful advocacy tactic and can be extremely effective in holding legislators accountable. Many legislators believe that a letter represents not only the position of the writer but also many other constituents who did not take the time to write.
But writing to your legislators doesn’t have to be a solo activity.
That’s why the ACLU of South Dakota, along with USD Spectrum and the Clay County Democrats, will be hosting a postcard writing party on Friday in Vermillion. Attendees will write notes to their legislators about ensuring that trans rights are upheld as bills are being considered.
Postcards and stamps will be provided.
“Communicating directly with our elected officials is a powerful advocacy tactic and can be very effective in making change in our state,” said Carter Linke, ACLU of South Dakota advocacy intern. “We want to make sure South Dakota voices are heard.”
IF YOU GO
WHAT: Letter writing party
WHEN: 5 to 6 p.m., Friday, Jan. 26
WHERE: The Bean, 6 W. Main St., Vermillion
FOR INFORMATION: Go to www.aclusd.org/events
About the ACLU of South Dakota
The American Civil Liberties Union of South Dakota is a non-partisan, nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation and enhancement of civil liberties and civil rights. The ACLU of South Dakota is part of a three-state chapter that also includes North Dakota and Wyoming. The team in South Dakota is supported by staff in those states.
The ACLU believes freedoms of press, speech, assembly, and religion, and the rights to due process, equal protection and privacy, are fundamental to a free people. In addition, the ACLU seeks to advance constitutional protections for groups traditionally denied their rights, including people of color, women, and the LGBTQ+ and Two Spirit communities. The ACLU of South Dakota carries out its work through selective litigation, lobbying at the state and local level, and through public education and awareness of what the Bill of Rights means for the people of South Dakota.
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