Create Champions and Be Leaders

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Using a public position to raise awareness about an issue can help create a more informed constituency and clarify misinformation. When leaders talk and write about issues, it raises the profile and visibility. It is also an opportune time to identify others with like-minded views, and other spheres of influence, to champion your cause.

Some possibilities to consider include:

  • Issue proclamations that establish celebrations of healthy marriage—such as a marriage week, or marriage day. Proclamations may raise the profile of marriage within the community.
  • Let your voice be heard! As a policymaker, you have a voice in your community. If you are a strong writer, you can write a letter to an editor or blog to reach a wider audience. Or, if you’re a gifted orator, many local radio, television, and cable programs will be interested in hearing about innovative programs and ideas that affect families. Make sure to have facts to support your statements. Marriage is a personal issue and opinion-based features can be misinterpreted as trying to impose your own beliefs or values on others.

    Clarifying the importance of an issue and explaining what your efforts are, and are not, is an effective way to educate people and generate buy-in for your ideas. At the very least, it may help dispel rumors and neutralize would-be opponents.
  • Participate as a speaker or member when asked. Accept invitations to make presentations, participate in panels, or join coalitions focused on supporting families. These events may be opportunities to network, gain support, or share your policy-related ideas. As a policymaker, your participation may draw others to attend. This will help you build a broader support network.

    Events hosted by community groups with beliefs similar to yours provide opportunities to gain grassroots’ support for the issues you care about. Leadership involves supporting like-minded groups in their endeavors.

    Helping to support healthy marriage may be easier than you think. The good news is that you aren’t starting from scratch. There are many examples, information resources and organizations that are available for you to consult. Chances are there may even be a local effort underway where you are—in which case, you can tap-in and offer your help to create systemic change, support programs, convene stakeholders and be a leader!

For more information, review the following:

  • Reports and Briefs: These reports summarize: the range of ideas currently within the public dialogue; information regarding policy, initiatives and marriage data across states; and links between research and public policy.
  • Related Web Sites: A list of Web sites that offer materials for those considering investing in public policy efforts to support healthy marriage.