CAI advocates and legislative action committees are experts on energizing and engaging grassroots campaigns. From Jan. 1 to March 31, more than 4,000 CAI advocates sent over 60,000 emails directly to legislators. This Q1 data underscores that grassroots outreach is a powerful and effective advocacy tool, but it is only one part of a broader strategy.
Providing legislative testimony is another critical tool in the democratic process. It allows advocates to educate lawmakers, influence public policy, and create an official record. Through testimony, advocates can communicate directly with decision-makers on the real-world impacts of proposed legislation that ensures informed, experience-based perspectives are considered. Whether providing oral testimony in front of a committee or submitted in writing, testimony becomes part of the public record. It means both your voice and CAI’s perspective are formally integrated into the governing process.
CAI offers an Advocates’ Guide to Written and Oral Testimony detailing best practices for preparation and delivery. Understanding why testimony is so valuable is key to encouraging active participation with CAI LACs and advocates.
Testimony provides a direct avenue to educate lawmakers on the full impact of proposed legislation. Based on CAI’s public policies, advocates can pair a consistent policy framework with their practical expertise and real-world insights.
When offering testimony, it is essential to remember you represent CAI’s 51,000+ members and are not speaking in an individual capacity. Testimony should be thoughtful, respectful, and solution oriented to focus on broad impact rather than personal grievances. Done effectively, testimony strengthens CAI’s credibility as a trusted resource.
Testimony also offers a platform for CAI members to share specialized knowledge, best practices, and constructive recommendations. It can highlight unforeseen consequences of legislation and suggest necessary amendments or alternatives. For community associations, testimony is especially valuable in demonstrating how state-level decisions directly affect local communities. Delivered respectfully and professionally, this expertise is not only heard but also on official record.
Finally, testimony allows for CAI to be an official part of the governing process. Unlike grassroots outreach, which is influential but less permanent, submitted testimony is filed and on record for future reference including legislative debates or potential litigation. Lawmakers may revisit prior testimony during hearings, debates, or votes, making it a lasting advocacy effort. Building a strong on-the-record trail of informative and educational testimony allows CAI to engage more effectively in policy discussions.
Legislative testimony is a key tool working in tandem with CAI’s rich grassroots efforts. While testifying can feel intimidating, consistent participation demonstrates commitment, professionalism, and partnership with lawmakers. Even when immediate outcomes are uncertain, it establishes a track record of engagement and reinforces advocates’ dedication to civic responsibility and the long-term health of community associations nationwide.
