William A. Fontenot

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On Forming Your Advocacy Group (Part 1)

On Forming Your Advocacy Group (Part 2)

Additional Suggested Reading from William A. Fontenot

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Summer 2007
How to form your own advocacy group with Willie Fontenot 

"Democracy is the government of the people by the people for the people."
Abraham Lincoln.

On Forming Your Advocacy Group
(Part 1)

By William A. Fontenot

1 - What is the issue or problem, who is, or will be, impacted and how can you make a difference?

Before you start anything...

try to get a clear understanding of the issue, proposal or problem. Develop a complete list of who is involved and how they are connected. Also develop as complete a list as possible of the people and geographic area which may be adversely impacted by the project or issue. If a company is involved, are they local, regional, national or international? Where is their local office and where is their corporate headquarters? Do they have to get any permits or approvals from government agencies at the local, state or national levels?

Know Your Area...

This is sort of like the song by Mr. Rogers. “Wouldn’t you like to know who is in your neighborhood?" Most of us know very little about our neighborhoods and here is an opportunity to learn who and what we have always taken for granted.

A key way of approaching a problem like this should be to know the answers before you ask the questions? The more you know the more effective you will be and your chances of success are greatly improved.

Develop a map,

or list, of all roadways, railways, pipelines, power lines, waterways, schools, residential areas, farmland, forest, wildlife areas, historical sites, parks, businesses, churches, graveyards, etc. that might be adversely impacted by the project or facility. Who owns, uses or has an interest in any of these resources? Do you or any of your neighbors know any of these people?

Look for Connections...

What is the history of the individual, corporation, agency, etc. which is proposing this project? What is the history of any agency or officials who are either connected with the project or who will approve or regulate the proposed or existing activity? Are there any similar activities in your neighborhood or anywhere else? Are there any individuals or groups who have dealt with this same, or similar, companies, or activities, in other locations? Where do the various government and corporate officials work and live?

Which financial institutions, including banks, insurance companies, etc. deal with this company or similar companies? What is the economic and environmental history of this company or type of company or operation? Has this company, or related companies, had any problems at other facilities or operations? What is their social justice history? What is the company’s labor history? Do any labor unions work for this company or agency? The answers to these types of questions will help immensely in developing your strategies over time.

Ask the Media...

Have there been any stories in the news media about what is being proposed or the issue that concerns you? You should contact the reporter and learn as much as you can from the reporter. Most people in the news media will be glad to assist you if you are nice to them and work with them.

Like this Article? Check out Part 2 ----> Here or

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