Do you have a little free time this month? Looking for something educational to do with your kids? Wondering how you can help keep momentum for wilderness protection moving forward in the dog days of summer? August is a great month to personally connect with your U.S. Representatives and Senators, as most Members of Congress will be leaving Washington, DC and returning to their home states to conduct town hall meetings, meet with various constituent groups, and travel throughout the state.
Take Action: Attend a town hall meeting!
In-person meetings with your Representative and/or Senators to share with them the issues that are of concern to you — like wilderness protection — are one of the most effective ways of convincing them that this issue should be a priority when they return to Capitol Hill. Members of Congress appreciate that you have taken time out of your busy schedule to come in and talk with them face-to-face. It truly makes a difference.
A "town hall" meeting, as they're often called, is another good way to connect with your congressional delegation. Town hall meetings are usually conducted in a give and take format, with oppportunity for questions from attendees. This is a terrific way to make Members aware of wilderness proposals in their state. If there's already a wilderness bill introduced in your region, but your Congressperson or Senator has not cosponsored the legislation, this is your chance to ask for their support. And if the Member is the sponsor of wilderness legislation, it's important to show support for their efforts by publicly thanking them. Check this directory to see if your Members are hosting meetings near you. If nothing is listed there, be sure to check their websites or call their local offices.
Your voice is important! So start a new tradition this summer — attend a town hall meeting or a meeting at his/her local office and let your Members of Congress know you support wilderness.
