Legislative Update

Advocacy in a COVID-19 World

BY BARBARA SHANER

For many of us, the inclination to be an advocate does not come naturally. While we may have strong beliefs about something (public education for example), we are not compelled to take up the cause and actively promote change. For one thing, our dayto-day lives can seem a world away from that place where laws are made, and regulations are established. Further, in the case of public education, educators, administrators and school leaders are often overwhelmed with the challenge of carrying out the laws and rules already in place. Extra time for advocacy just doesn’t seem possible.

This was the case pre-COVID. How much more difficult is it to be an advocate when living under a world-wide pandemic? Let’s consider that question – and let’s also look at the situation from an elected official’s view.

Social media, online meetings and electronic communications were all being utilized before the coronavirus pandemic materialized. However, the use of these tools (and their effectiveness) has been accelerated dramatically just since March of this year. Experts say we’ve catapulted decades ahead in the effectiveness of these tools, and the creative ways we’ve found to communicate and conduct business electronically. OAESA members know first-hand what it means to utilize remote communications and online learning effectively, and we know you have found ways to improve on that process.

When you think about it, Ohio’s legislators are in the same boat we all are as they attempt to connect with constituents. Large public gatherings are not possible, shaking hands with voters is a no-no, and even knocking on doors would be frowned upon. Perhaps this is an opportunity for the average citizen (a.k.a. public school supporters) to meet them where they are – in cyberspace.

Another interesting phenomenon that has cropped up with the Coronavirus pandemic is the amplification of the shortcomings with the current public education system, including the over-reliance on high stakes testing. Also, the inequities among students’ access to high quality educational opportunities have been brought to light more clearly. The spotlight on public education has never been brighter.

As we consider these factors—the new way in which communication is occurring coupled with the increased focus on the needs of students and those who serve them—it seems like the perfect opportunity to rethink advocacy.

We used to encourage members to make appointments to meet with legislators in their offices in Columbus. That is not really an option these days as in-person meetings are no longer the norm. We used to encourage members to invite legislators to their buildings. With many schools starting out the school year with remote learning, that won’t be possible either.

Building principals have first-hand knowledge of the challenges that come with educating students in a COVID-19 world. You also know about the great things happening in your ‘buildings’ when it comes to engaging students and the learning that can still take place. With that comes your understanding of what’s important and what can be set aside (such as unreasonable/unnecessary laws and regulations) in favor of common sense and what really works. Why not look for ways to share this knowledge with the people in charge of making the laws and rules that could affect success in the future?

There are two reasons why we hope members will find ways to communicate with lawmakers this year (yes, become advocates). First, if we don’t share information about the needs of students and the best policies that will impact success, they won’t have good information on which to take action. Second, because of the

influence of social media and the current political climate, there is plenty of negative fodder about public education out there for lawmakers to latch onto. Instead of making informed decisions, they may make harmful ones.

One example of negative publicity around public education is the perception that with remote learning, schools don’t need as much money. In some school districts, taxpayers are demanding a refund. Yet education is still taking place, and in some cases, the challenges are even greater as we make sure all students are engaged. Not to mention the state funding reductions that have already been implemented. That is why it is important to get the word out about the positive things that are happening in public education in this COVID-19 world.

Let’s go with the assumption that legislators need our help. We can also assume they just like us, figuring out how to communicate with constituents (voters). You can help by proactively reaching out to them either with a phone call or electronically, to set up a virtual meeting or to invite them to observe an example of online learning. Advocacy doesn’t require you to make a strong speech or argument about the needs of public education. It can simply be the building of a relationship between you, your building, your students, and a local legislator. Then when there is something specific and important to discuss, they will know who you are, and they will know why your views should be considered. In the year 2020, we have changed from Columbus-centered advocacy to a much more flexible and local mode of communication and engagement. As a professional advocate, I now have fewer opportunities to speak to legislators in the hallways of the Statehouse. I, too, have been forced to think of advocacy in a different light. Knowing that credibility and influence rely significantly on positive relationships that are built over time, the challenge for lobbyists like me is in finding ways to connect virtually before an issue arises.

The same is true for OAESA members. Also, your role in providing credibility for the organization has been amplified under the current circumstances. When we speak with legislators, if they already know our members, our chances of success are greatly improved.

So, don’t wait until there is a bill you want passed (or one you oppose) to contact a legislator. Get to know them and let them get to know you. They’ll be more likely to take your call about a specific issue, if that relationship is already in place. This concept hasn’t changed; it’s just that the way you get to know your legislators is different.

Advocacy is still advocacy in this COVID-19 world, but just as business, personal communications, and of course schooling have all changed, we have an opportunity to re-think the way we advocate as well as re-visit its importance.

Barbara Shaner is OAESA’s Advocacy Specialist. If you need more information, contact the author at barbaracshaner@gmail.com.

INTRODUCING A FINANCIAL SERVICES COMPANY THAT’S HELPED PEOPLE LOOK AHEAD FOR 160 YEARS.

equitable.com

Equitable is the brand name of the retirement and protection subsidiaries of Equitable Holdings, Inc., including Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company (Equitable Financial) (NY, NY); Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company of America (Equitable America), an AZ stock company with main administrative headquarters in Jersey City, NJ; and Equitable Distributors, LLC. Equitable Advisors is the brand name of Equitable Advisors, LLC (member FINRA, SIPC) (Equitable Financial Advisors in MI & TN). The obligations of Equitable Financial and Equitable America are backed solely by their claims-paying abilities. GE-2857095 (7/20) | G849481