Write letters, and distribute them to school board members and local public officials. A well-written letter can make a difference in terms of gaining their support for increasing self-defense school activities. Encourage supporters, such as parents, teachers and students, to also write letters. When writing, make sure that you get to the point quickly, and provide credible and concrete information as to how self-defense programs will be beneficial to local youths. Keep in mind that your letter should entail what you'd like the official to do in order to take action.
Get your issue published in the newspaper. Write a letter to the editor that briefly, but thoroughly, explains the need to have more self-defense programs in your local schools. Include facts as to how a program would benefit the students, and also give details about why the students need to learn self-defense tactics. Not only will your letter be read by thousands of people, but school leaders and public officials and their staff members will also read it. A letter to the editor is an effective way for your issue to become noticed by a much larger audience. Another way to get published is to get a reporter to buy in to the need for self-defense programs and write a news article or feature story. An opinion piece written by the newpaper's editor supporting the programs will also help you get on the radar screen.
Get the community involved. Lobbying isn't typically a one-person job. Getting your voice heard takes getting others invested in your desire for more self-defense programs. Legislators and school officials want to know about the issues impacting large numbers of people. The more people who speak on self-defense in schools, the more likely you and your issue will be heard and taken seriously, according to NPAction.org, an organization that supports nonprofits and their lobbying efforts. Encourage your supporters to distribute fliers in the community, send emails to school board members and politicians, use social media tactics and call legislators.