I’ve Done A Little | Advocacy Toolkit

You don’t have to watch every step of a bill. Just focus on these four key moments — the ones that truly matter for advocacy.

1. Before a bill is introduced

This is when lawmakers are deciding what issues should be a priority.
You can:

• Tell lawmakers what your community is facing
• Ask them to look into an issue
• Share stories about what’s needed
• Attend town halls
• Email or call them

Most people don’t contact lawmakers before bills exist — so your voice stands out here.

2. When a bill is in committee

Committees are where most bills either move forward or die.
You can:

• Contact committee members
• Ask for support or opposition
• Share why this bill matters
• Attend hearings
• Submit written comments
• Testify

Even five or six people contacting a committee can change a vote.

3. During floor debates

This is when all lawmakers in the House or Senate are discussing the bill.
You can:

• Contact your own Representative or Senator
• Tell friends to reach out too
• Post on social media
• Email lawmakers with your position

At this stage, lawmakers are paying attention to how their district feels.

4. When the bill goes to the governor

This is the final chance to influence the outcome.
You can:

• Ask for a signature
• Ask for a veto
• Share stories about why the decision matters
• Mobilize others to contact the Governor

Contacting lawmakers can feel intimidating, but it’s actually very simple.
Here’s what most lawmakers want:

• A short message
• A clear reason
• A personal connection
• A specific ask
• Your name and location

You do not need fancy language.
You do not need to argue.
You only need to be honest and clear.

1. A simple script

Hi, my name is ________. I live in ________ (your town). I’m contacting you about _______ (name the issue). This matters to me because ______ (a short reason or story). I’m asking you to please _______ (support/oppose/amend the bill). Thank you for your time.

2. How to email a lawmaker

• Write a clear subject line: “Constituent about [bill number]”
• Keep it short
• Share your story
• Make one direct request
• Add your address or ZIP so they know you’re a constituent

3. How to call a lawmaker

• Use the script above
• It’s okay if you speak to staff or leave a voicemail
• Calls take 30 seconds — and they’re effective

4. How to meet a lawmaker in person

• Introduce yourself
• Be calm and friendly
• Keep it simple
• Bring one page of information if you have it
• End with your ask

Lawmakers remember people who show up face-to-face — in a good way.

Many Oklahomans haven’t visited the State Capitol — and that’s okay.
Here’s what to expect:

1. Getting inside

• Park in visitor parking
• Enter through the main entrance
• Go through security (like airport security but simpler)
• Tell the staff you’re visiting your lawmakers

2. Finding your way

• Ask for directions — the Capitol staff are used to helping visitors
• Committee rooms and galleries are open to the public
• You can sit quietly and observe

3. Talking to lawmakers

• Catch them before or after a vote
• Leave a note with staff
• Attend office hours

4. Tips to feel confident

• Take a deep breath — you belong there
• Remember you’re a constituent
• You don’t need to know everything
• Showing up makes a big impression

There is no “right” way to advocate.
Every role matters.
When you’re ready, consider taking the following steps:

• Call a lawmaker
• Attend a hearing
• Submit written testimony
• Show up at a community meeting
• Submit a public comment on a proposed rule or policy
• Call a legislator or staff member