Organizing vs Lobbying

I am forever thankful to my ancestors, elders, and the communities that raised me. I was raised on endless communal activities, social awareness, and critical thinking. The United States of America does not seem to provide the same experience for Latinos born here and I see many moving away from our elders' and ancestors' practices to adopt the ways of the oppressors.

Listening and following the call of people directly impacted by injustice will lead us toward liberation. Following the lead of people in power, and privilege and not directly impacted by injustice will have us practicing well-meaning advocacy deprived of the grounding effect of community accountability. We must learn the difference.

What is Community Organizing?

Community Organizing is the practice of bringing community members together to address a common concern. Community organizing is the backbone of civic engagement and its north star. When community members come together to align around a common purpose and shared values, they develop a collective voice and power to create the change they seek.

What is Lobbying / Advocacy?

Lobbying or Advocacy is using one’s voice on behalf of a large group to influence a cause. Lobbying usually has a negative connotation because we think of big corporations and deep pockets while advocacy has a positive connotation because we think of worthy causes, but without the grounding factor of community organizing, they are the same practice.

What is Policy Making?

Policy making is the process of creating new laws which includes drafting legislative concepts, gathering legislators and community support, strategizing to overcome political setbacks and more.

What is Community Education?

Community Education is the dissemination of information (e.i. Implementation of new laws) among community members who are directly impacted and need the information.