Marriage Equality Rhode Island

learn / for RI Voters

Talk to Your Reps

Elected officials focus on constituent contact because it helps direct their voting behavior. They want to know who supports an issue, how many voters support it, why they support it and how it will impact their district.

Why Connecting at the State House is Important

Through your contact, elected officials will be able to learn just how important marriage equality is to you, your family, your neighbors and you community. Every contact you make is one more voice for equal marriage for same-sex families.

Even if your official is supportive on our issues, you should still call, visit or write, thanking them for their support since they will inevitably hear from the anti-marriage equality constituents as well.  Affirmation of an official’s stance is just as important to communicate as a request to change a stance.  As constituents, it is our responsibility to hold our representatives accountable. Remember that legislators can only know how you feel if you tell them.

We understand that approaching legislators can feel daunting, but when you are familiar with the process and you have a strategy, becoming directly involved with the legislative process will be much less intimidating.

Create a friendly environment

It is important to remember that although you may be upset by statements your legislator has made, it is vital to approach all conversations with warmth and friendliness. Creating a trusting and friendly environment will allow for the optimal atmosphere to present your message.

Be prepared to educate and answer questions

There is a chance your legislator may know little, if anything, about the marriage equality issue or the hardships the lack of equal marriage can have on families. Be familiar with the bills that are currently pending and have answers to anticipated questions. Prepare 2–3 talking points to help guide your conversation. Our fact sheets and F.A.Q.s can help you prepare your message.

Make one point at a time

Talk about one point at a time, have a clear request, and stick to the issue of equal marriage. Trying to take one more than on issue at the time can be confusing and muddle your request. Calls-to-action always need to be specific and when speaking we need to have one goal in mind: to win marriage equality for Rhode Island.

Focus on clarity

Marriage, love and family are emotional issues for us all. These emotions can overtake a conversation if you aren’t careful. Stay logical and factual and trust your best sense when you talk emotionally.

Clearly state your issue

Explain marriage equality in a way that your legislator can relate to. Tell him/her why marriage is important to you and how equal marriage will affect your family. Your personal story is the most powerful tool you have when speaking with your legislator.

Say Thank You

Thank your legislator for her/his time and attention and leave the door open for continued conversation.

Follow-up with requested information

Mail, email or hand-deliver additional facts, figures or correspondence requested by your legislator. Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone. Continuing correspondence with your legislator keeps them up to date with the issue and reminds them that this affects real voters in their district.

Complete a Report for MERI

Please report back to MERI the substance of your visit with your legislator. These reports help us track the opinions of the legislators and target additional education efforts as needed.