No matter where we are, no matter our age, gender, color, or religion, we all must learn how to advocate for ourselves. Knowing our rights and responsibilities gives us control, empowerment, confidence, hope, and positive outlook on our lives.
Believe in Yourself, for you are a valuable person and worth the effort it takes to protect your rights. Building self-esteem, courage, and reaching out for help is the key to becoming an effective self-advocate.
Do you know your rights?
Every country and every situation have different requirements, laws, resources, and organizations that can provide you with information about your rights.
You must know your rights to make good decisions for yourself.
To decide what you want
Become very clear about what you need to set your goals. Set goals to help you be clear in communicating your needs to others.
Gather the facts to back up your needs
It is very important to know what you are talking about or asking for. The internet is mostly used as a main source of information however the accuracy must be checked by looking at different references. Consulting experts, talking to people with similar situations, specialized organizations, nonprofits, etc. will be beneficial for information as well as getting feedback and support for your ideas and decisions.
Get support
Family, friends, people who have similar situations are important moral support.
Use community support programs, referral or crisis hotlines, advocacy groups, and service providers. Attend classes or workshops. Educate yourself on what you need.
Plan strategy and find key persons
Act by using the information you have gathered and make sure you speak to the people or organization that can best assist you in your advocacy issues. Preparing a list of key topics with questions or a summary of your issues will save you time and will help you get the information you specifically need.
Make sure you write down the name of each person you spoke with and their contact information. Take notes and plan for the next step after each meeting.
Keep a record of your phone calls and follow-ups.
Be cautious with sharing personal information written or verbal.
If someone tells you about laws, policies or procedures try getting a copy.
To express yourself clearly, keep calm, be persistent, and firm
Be brief and stick to the point! As mentioned above make a list of talking points and questions. State your concerns, what you want to accomplish or want to change. Explain how you want to do it. If the person does not seem to be helpful or is not able to help, ask them to refer you to someone else that can provide you with what you may need.
Doing role-play with a friend, family member, etc. Before you speak with the person you meet may be helpful.
Advocating for yourself and asking for what you need also requires being a good listener. Listen well and take notes.
It may not be easy to convince people about your issues and it may be stressful at times, but it is very important to stay calm to achieve your goal. You must respect the rights of others as much as you expect them to respect yours.
Never give up! Be persistent! Ask for help when you need it.
Follow through on what you say and dedicate yourself to getting what you need.
YOU CAN DO IT!
