Student Activism

South Florida Sun Sentinel – How to make your idea become an actual law

Legislators want to hear your ideas. They value your suggestions and encourage you to express them. And while the conversation can start on social media, there are other ways to reach out. Here is the best way to get your idea in front of your legislator:
  • Know who your legislators are and how to contact them. Review how the legislative process works.
  • Understanding how an idea becomes a law will help you effectively express your own ideas.
  • Contact your legislator about a particular issue before the Legislature takes action on it.
  • Use a variety of communication methods. You might choose to contact your legislator by phone, letter, email, fax, social media or visiting in person.
  • Another great way to spread your message is to give testimony at public hearings held by the Legislature.
  • Be concise, yet specific. Tell your legislator what effect you think a particular issue or bill, if it becomes law, will have on you, your children, business or community. Also, suggest a course of action and offer assistance.
  • Be polite, even if you disagree strongly with the legislator you are addressing.
If you have an idea for a new law, or a better one, reach out to your legislator. You never know — your effort could improve the lives of your fellow citizens.  

Students Make a Difference

New Boston Post – You Can File Bills In the Massachusetts Legislature — Here’s How

State House News Service via CBS News – Massachusetts House Approves Bill To Make Podokesaurus The Official State Dinosaur

Boston Globe – Students participate in Beacon Hill advocacy day for women’s commission

State House News Service via Wicked Local – With kindness month, Burlington students look to turn ‘mess into a masterpiece’

 

Fighting for the Garden

Boston Globe – TD Garden owners agreed to hold fundraisers for Boston — but they never have

Boston Globe – Teen activists uncover forgotten TD Garden fundraiser promise

 

Salem ‘Witch’ Trials

Associated Press – 329 years later, last Salem ‘witch’ who wasn’t is pardoned

Boston Herald – Last Salem ‘witch’ pardoned in Massachusetts, thanks to North Andover Middle School students

 

Project 351

CBS Boston – Project 351 kicks off day of service with message of hope

Boston Herald – ‘We can make a huge change:’ Project 351 kicks off its 13th year of community service