Let's get active! Introduction to Advocacy

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Feel passionate about a cause? Want to do something about it? This is part 1 of a 4-part series about how to identity and develop an advocacy campaign.

Part One: Introduction to Advocacy

What is Advocacy?

ADVOCACY is public support for or recommendation of a particular cause or policy.

• Media advocacy: using media (including social media) to support community members’ efforts to create awareness surrounding social issues.
• Policy advocacy: tactics, strategies and initiatives which target changes to policies and legislation.

What is the Media?

The media is the main means of mass communication (especially television, radio, newspapers, and the internet) regarded collectively. Let’s see some examples of  Media Advocacy.

Examples of writing advocacy.

Never underestimate the power of words! A blog post, a letter to the editor, an opinion piece, or an article published in the local media can cause great impact. Showing the world that you, a youth advocate, cares enough to write words on the subject, will be listened to.

Youth-led advocacy events in public.

Organizing a rally or event about something you care about can really raise awareness. Local news organizations always look for events like this to cover — lots of impassioned youth and a good cause make for great visuals and sound bites!

We’ll discuss social media when we discuss media advocacy campaigns.

Check out part two!