“Voice Is Power” was the message we heard from legislators, government officials and state and local leaders. It was the rallying point in our capitol rotunda as we advocated for budget increases to fund programing to decriminalize mental illness. Mental Illness programs have consistently received low priority funding. We are changing that.
Decriminalization is a no brainer – no one gets “reformed” in jail or prison, especially if they are suffering from mental health problems and co-occurring substance use disorders. In fact, they get traumatized. The data from our local Mental Health Diversion court, that I helped start and run, tells that clearly. By diverting people out of corrections to treatment, we have saved our county $2.5 million a year in reduced court and jail expenses.
Here are some ideas for how your voice is power!
JOIN
Put your passion to work and join groups, organizations, or rallies for what you believe in. For woman’s issues, try Ziva Voices (www.zivavoices.com), Mental Health reform, join NAMI (www.nami.org). environmental Issues, look at Sierra Club (www.sierraclub.org) , the arts, look up GreenRoom Exchange (www.greenroomexchange.org). The list is long – check out what speaks to you.
TALK TO YOUR LEGISLATORS
Your state and national legislators keep track of the number of people who advocate for specific issues. The more vocal you are, the more they are forced to listen, especially if you can personalize your request. Despite what you think, it makes a big difference. Our issue was taken out of the state budget, now it is back in. Speak up, make calls and sign petitions.
DONATE
Most advocacy groups are non-profits that are dependent on your support to actively create change. “Put your money where your mouth is” is a slogan for a reason. Be intentional – be selective – and give where you want to see change.
Want to learn how to do this more effectively – reach out!
