Legislative Advocacy Toolkit

Identify an Issue: Choose a problem you care about (e.g., book bans, disproportionate suspensions, lack of inclusive curriculum)

1. Research the Problem:
   • Find relevant statistics from credible sources (e.g., TN DOE, Brookings, Pew, EdTrust)
   • Look into local school board or legislative history
   • Collect testimonials from affected students or communities

1. Outline the Bill:
   • Title: Clear and specific
   • Purpose: What this bill aims to fix or improve
   • Definitions: Clarify important terms (e.g., "equitable curriculum")
   • Body Sections: Specific mandates or actions the bill calls for (e.g., funding, reporting requirements, restrictions)
   • Implementation: Who enforces it, when it takes effect, and how it will be monitored

1. Draft the Language: Use clear, formal tone with precise instructions. Avoid vague language.
2. Review and Edit: Share with mentors, organizers, or policy advisors. Expect multiple drafts.
3. Prepare for Debate: Practice explaining your bill's intent, responding to critiques, and proposing amendments.

 Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Find Your Representatives:
   Use capitol.tn.gov to look up your TN state House and Senate reps by ZIP code.
    
2. Craft Your Email or Call Script:
   Include:
    
   • Who you are
   • What you're asking
   • Why it matters (with story or data)
   • Gratitude and follow-up

• Specific Details to Include:
  
  • Keep it to 3 paragraphs or fewer
  • Introduce yourself and your school or district
  • Clearly state what you are asking for
  • Share a personal story or statistic
  • Thank them for their time
     

Sample Email:

Subject: Urgent Support Needed for Inclusive Curriculum Bill
Dear Senator [Last Name],
My name is [Your Name], a high school student from [School] and an advocate with the TN Student Equity Leadership Board. I'm writing to urge your support for [Bill Name], which would ensure students statewide have access to racially inclusive and representative curriculum. As a student of color, I've rarely seen my history reflected in our classrooms. This bill would help change that. Thank you for considering the voice of Tennessee students.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Grade + School]
 

Hi, my name is [Your Name], and I’m a student from [School]. I’m calling to ask Rep. [Name] to support [Bill Name] to [short impact]. Could I speak with a legislative aide or leave a message?

How a Bill Becomes Law (Simplified):

1. Drafted by a legislator (with help from advocates or constituents)
    
2. Filed and assigned a number (HB/SB)
    
3. Reviewed by Committee(s)
    
4. Debated on the Floor of the House and Senate
    
5. Passed by Majority Vote
    
6. Signed into Law by the Governor
    

Note: Most bills die in committee. Student voices during this stage are critical!

• ACLU Know Your Rights: https://www.aclu-tn.org/en/know-your-rights

• EdTrust TN Bridging Education Policy and Community: https://edtrusttn.org/

• TN School Board Meeting Calendar: https://www.tn.gov/sbe/meetings/meetings-calendar.html

• March For Our Lives Resources: https://marchforourlives.org/resources/