Tell leaders where you stand on key issues


One of the greatest privileges available to all Americans concerns the ability to contact their leaders directly and make their opinions known. Citizens can do this without any fear of physical retribution from those in power. The elected officials may not always act on the requests, but at least they know where a group of citizens stand.

Those seeking a new high school in northern Davidson County availed themselves of that right and sent about 350 letters to the county commissioners advocating for construction of the school. It would join Oak Grove Middle School to alleviate overcrowding in the North Davidson and Ledford districts. Much credit goes to Neal Motsinger, a Midway resident and school backer who drafted the template that many supporters used. Motsinger shows how one person can mobilize many others to lobby for a cause.

Sheer numbers don't always paint a true picture, although in this case there's no question many parents want to see the high school built. Modern technology allows the easy spread of a message, and many people can take advantage of a form letter and attach their name. They agree with the overall sentiment, even if they're not saying it with their own words.

So while the numbers are important, sometimes a smaller number of unique, well-reasoned letters, emails or phone calls may resonate even more with those in decision-making positions. Advocates who can make their case convincingly with strong points can sway elected leaders to their side, especially if that person hasn't decided how to vote. Letters can be transmitted electronically or by mail.

Other avenues exist as well. Rallies for specific causes provide a visual representation of those who favor a certain position. That's why large-scale events often take place in Raleigh or Washington, D.C., where like-minded people can attempt to sway the public opinion as well as lawmakers. Attendance at public meetings often proves effective on the local level. Politicians won't always vote based on visible support, as they may have sound reasons for taking the opposite position. But they had better be able to explain it in the face of public opposition.

Phone calls, emails and face-to-face communication also offer avenues to reach elected leaders. These may not bring attention like rallies or speaking at public meetings, but they, too, offer effective ways to alert elected leaders to the desire of the public. The more folks willing to make these personal efforts, the more effective they tend to be.

Another civic opportunity comes less than two weeks from now with the municipal elections. That offers the ultimate way for citizens to express their preferences. So take advantage of democracy and participate — at the voting booth and through regular engagement in issues.


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