Choosing to engage in public policy advocacy is a personal decision. If a legislative bill relates to your experiences or the experiences of people you care about, deciding whether and how to get involved can feel overwhelming. Below are some considerations for getting involved in public policy advocacy.
If you are new to public policy advocacy, it can take time to understand how the process works. This guide is designed to support you in learning at your own pace.
You may find it helpful to start with:
You’re also welcome to contact us for more information about the Nebraska Legislature.
Whether through public testimony or online comments, lived experience can offer valuable insight into how laws and systems impact people. Some people choose to share their personal experiences as part of their public policy advocacy, but that’s not the only way to engage. You may choose to draw on your professional experiences, share general perspectives, or ask thought-provoking questions.
If you do choose to share your personal experience, you can decide what you share, how much you share, and with whom. There are many ways to engage in public policy that do not require sharing publicly, including submitting online comments or contacting senators directly.
Some forms of public policy advocacy, such as testifying at a legislative hearing, take place in public spaces. Hearings are recorded, livestreamed, and transcribed as part of the public record. Your testimony will remain accessible indefinitely, and anyone can search and find your testimony.
For some people, this level of visibility may feel comfortable. For others, it may be unsafe or inaccessible. Both are valid. If public testimony does not feel comfortable or accessible, there are other ways to participate, including submitting online comments or contacting senators directly.
Engaging in public policy advocacy can bring up a range of emotions, especially when topics are connected to personal experiences. Having support can make a difference.
Support might include:
If you would like additional support, you can contact us. The Nebraska Coalition offers one-on-one support to survivors of sexual, domestic, and similar types of violence who choose to share their stories and testify on legislative bills. We can provide resources, guidance, and emotional support to help you navigate the legislative process.
Some forms of engagement, such as attending hearings, require a significant time commitment. Hearings start in the afternoon at 1:30 p.m., often include multiple legislative bills, and can last several hours into the evening.
Access to transportation, scheduling, and other responsibilities may also affect your ability to participate. If attending in person is not possible, there are other ways to engage, such as submitting online comments or contacting senators directly.
Engaging in public policy advocacy is not all-or-nothing. You can take time to explore your options, build knowledge, and decide what feels right for you.
Your participation can change over time, and you can step in or step back as needed.
If you decide to engage in public policy, it’s also important to consider how to take care of yourself before, during, and after. Thinking ahead about what support you may want can help you care for yourself throughout the process.
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