Political

If you have a typing injury, like a repetitive strain injury (RSI), you have every reason to become a political activist. Why not share your story? Why not help others who have typing injuries? Why not do what you can to help lessen the occurrence of RSI in the workplace? Help others so that they do not have to suffer as you have.

It is possible for you, as an individual, to make a change. Why wait for the government to finally fight for your cause – that may not happen until the president is stuck with a horrible RSI! Instead, go ahead and start lobbying for a change. Start a petition. Use the Internet to spread your word. Become a political activist.

You do not have to be a professional lobbyist to make a change – you need only facts, your personal experience, and knowledge of who needs to be influenced and how to influence them to make a change. Elected officials may not know about the vast problems associated with RSI – it is practically your duty to inform them.

Here are some tips to help you start lobbying for a change:

• Who represents you? Find out by calling your county elections office (Registrar of Voters).
• Letter – Limit a letter to just one page (two pages, maximum). Start with why your are writing and what you want the representative to do. Get the main point out in the beginning. Cite your personal experience. Use facts. Say “thanks” and ask for a follow-up. Remain courteous. Address envelopes to “The Honorable so-and-so.” Also be sure to use their titles when you address the “Representative” or “Assembly Member,” etc. You can fax or mail your letter.
• E-mail – An e-mail is considered by some to be slightly less effective than a letter. Keep your message concise and polite.
• Phone call – Be prepared to make your phone call – jot down some notes points you want to go over and refer to these notes. Calling the capitol office is slightly better than calling the district office, but also generally more expensive (toll charge). Be prepared to speak with a member of the staff, not the representative.
• Meeting with in person – Arrange an appointment by calling. While you can meet as an individual, it is a good idea to have a group of participants. Prepare what you want to say. Have a leader of your group. Introduce yourself and thank the person for his or time. Explain why you are there and what you want him or her to do. You must keep up the agenda – you are the one who requested the meeting. Keep all of your comments on the topic at hand – do not go on tangents (while the information in your tangents may be valid, save it for another time). Bring a long written information to leave with the person, too, full of facts.

These are merely tips to help you get involved in politics. Realize that anyone can become a political activist. Anyone can strive to make a difference. Why not get started today? For more information on becoming a grassroots lobbyist, check out www.sfaf.org/policy/grassroots/

Also, you make big changes on a more minor level by “lobbying” at the corporation you work for. Convince your bosses to supply employees with ergonomic workstations and information on typing injuries.