Student Debt Crisis Teach-Out

If you’ve participated in previous Teach-Outs, you may recognize our “Five Elements of Effective Advocacy.” This is a concise approach to identifying your message and making an impact.

What is your goal?

The most important step in any advocacy strategy is clarifying your goal.

Who are the key decision makers?

Write to your government leaders. If you’re participating from the U.S., identify your Senators and Representatives. If you're participating from another region or country, take a moment to identify your government representatives.

Can you identify a champion?

This is a person who is inside the process, and who will advance your goal internally. You might consider connecting with an organization that is already fighting for student debt reform. Dalié Jiménez mentioned the following:

• The Debt Collective
• Student Loan Justice
• Young Invincibles
• Student Debt Crisis Center

What is your message? How will you communicate it?

Think about how you can use your networks to amplify your message.

Can you build out a coalition?

Who are the other people or organizations that share your goal? You may find them by sharing your opinion widely or looking for local organizations.