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As part of a comprehensive "Vote for Kids" campaign, we (the advocacy program at my organization, in coordination with the ACEs-focused Initiative I direct) are gearing up for election season this year in Alaska. We are trying to figure out how to get questions inserted into candidate debates and published candidate questionnaires about issues affecting family and children well-being. These questions will include topics from childcare to wages to housing and something about ACEs and trauma-informed systems change. 

I've been searching in here but have not yet found anything. Have you found or used any examples of questions that bring the urgency of this topic to the forefront of the political debate and push candidates to address it as an important issue and, preferably, pledge to fund this kind of work? 

 

Thank you!

Last edited by Laura Norton-Cruz
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Hello Laura,

I found the most effective way of working with legislators is building a relationship with them.  I suggest meeting with key members of their team and teaching them about ACEs.  Then you can talk about how ACEs fit with their priorities: children, families, criminal justice, economy.

You then avoid embarrassing them and making them look stupid. 

This would be the beginning of a long term relationship.  After you meet with them and find common ground, then you can invite them to speak at your organization about how your visions are similar. Their work can become our work. 

Relationships are the key to making long term change.  You may end up being appointed to important commissions, committees.

I wish you the best.  Let me know if I can be of further assistance.

Carolyn Curtis,

Author, Mind Matters: Overcoming Adversity and Building Resilience

 

 

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