Your one-stop-shop for all Academy advocacy resources to help you get the most out of your advocacy efforts year-round.
New to advocacy? No need to worry. We have resources for all levels of engagement. Browse the content below and contact Megan Tweed, grassroots coordinator at mtweed@aao.org, if you have any questions or concerns.
Lawmaker Lookup
Not sure who your lawmakers are? Use this tool to look up your lawmaker and find their contact information.
Research Key Legislation
Use this tool to research key, Academy-backed legislation. It provides bill summaries, cosponsor lists and bill tracking to see where the bill is in the legislative process.
Send Your Legislator an Email
Use the Academy’s online advocacy tool to send a pre-drafted email to your lawmakers. The online tool also has the ability for you to tweet at your members of Congress.
Advocacy Meetings
Meeting with your lawmaker plays such a key role in establishing relationships with them. Although it may seem like a daunting task, the Academy has created this toolkit to assist you in setting up your meetings year-round.
- Sample Agenda
- Sample Meeting Request
- Sample Logistics Form
Note: Academy staff is always available to schedule meetings for you at your practice or at your legislator’s office. Contact Megan Tweed at mtweed@aao.org for one-on-one assistance.
Ready to set up a meeting and advocate for ophthalmology? Let us know.
Effective Congressional Meetings
Looking for a few suggestions on how to have effective congressional meetings? Read these dos and don’ts when meeting with your lawmakers.
Engaging with Freshman Lawmakers
The 116th Congress will have 100 new lawmakers in the U.S. House and Senate. Now is the opportune time to begin cultivating relationships with these new lawmakers. Here is a brief guide on how to engage effectively with the new Congress.
Town Hall Guide
Town Halls are a fun way to interact with your member of Congress back in the district. Read a guide on how to navigate a local town hall efficiently and effectively.
Letter to the Editor
A letter to the editor can be another effective tool in influencing legislators' views and opinions on issues impacting ophthalmology. Getting an article published in your local newspaper broadens your audience and puts a spotlight on your issue. Take a look at the Academy’s guide to drafting an effective letter to the editor.
Social Media Toolkit
Interact with members of Congress and their staff on social media. Use the Academy's social media toolkit to start a conversation about issues impacting ophthalmology.
Attending a Political Fundraiser
Attending a fundraiser on behalf of OPHTHPAC® is a great way to build a relationship with your elected officials. Follow these tips to ensure an effective and enjoyable experience.