Opinion: Local advocacy is where real change occurs

As individuals, we can often feel powerless to elicit change and advocate for causes effectively.  Without political or financial power, activism can be unnerving for the average person.

The political process through which social change and advocacy can occur is not readily accessible to everyday people. Political and social action requires research, resources, coalition building, and most importantly — time. Political action and social change takes a lot of time as our government system is fragmented into federal and state systems and action is slow-moving.

The average citizen typically lacks the amount of time and sheer will power it takes to stay dedicated to advocating on behalf of a cause or concern. Many of the social problems and concerns — climate change, government corruption and income inequality —  seem like such daunting issues within today’s society.  more....

Legislative Advocacy

People in and seeking recovery face many barriers to long-term recovery. Some of those barriers can be overcome with the help of mutual support groups, family, friends, and community resources. But many barriers exist that are beyond the capacity of a single person in recovery.

As a result of stigma, and a historical lack of understanding of addiction and recovery, many laws, regulations, and initiatives supported by state and local governments and agencies inadvertently decrease the opportunities for people to recover from substance use disorder.  more….