Sophie Hansen, LCSW, is Political Director of National Association of Social Workers, MA chapter. She is an expert on talking to legislators, because getting lawmakers to do things is pretty much her job. Plus, Sophie helps get social workers to be legislative advocates. Here's her expert tips on speaking to lawmakers. First, establish common ground - find something in the district to establish a bond as people. Then tell your reasons for asking for action. Sophie cautions that you don't have to be an expert on the language of the bill - but you should share your passion. Don't forget to have a definite "ask," either to vote a certain way, to sponsor a bill, etc. And finally, make the legislator accountable. Ask when you can contact again to check in, ask if there is a certain aide that works on the issue. Find a way to get a response to your request. You're their constituent, she reminds us. They need and want to talk to us, to hear what we care about.  

Sophie is also a member of the speakers' bureau at the Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARC). where she takes off her social work and lobbyist hats to talk about her own personal experience. It's a different type of speaking than she does at her day job, and she shares her experience of  the vulnerability and power of telling her own story. 

When Tahirah Amatul-Wadud was a little girl, her mother used to say that there was "no adult conversation she couldn't find her way into." (She admits she was pretty "nosy and vocal" as a child.) She's harnessed that interest and energy to become an exceptionally confident and engaging speaker and an electrifying candidate for US Congress. She tells us about why she is so confident, why she's taking on a long time incumbent, and some of the challenges she's overcoming. 

Sabrina Heisey is a professional, a mother of six, and a candidate for MA state office. That means every night after work, she and her family head out for canvassing. What is it like to canvass as a progressive in a district that voted for Trump?  And what's it like to campaign as you truly are - with the confidence, bravery, and at times, vulnerability? Sabrina Heisey has a unique story and a unique campaign, and you should know about it.