Advocacy in Action: Help Move Bill

Last month, we talked about how Bill finds his voice and highlighted the VFW’s advocacy efforts surrounding H.R. 9237, the Take Care of America’s Veterans Act. When thousands of veterans, Auxiliary members, and supporters spoke out against efforts to reduce earned disability compensation to offset the bill’s cost, we proved that advocacy works! Although House consideration has been postponed, now is NOT the time to let up. We must continue urging Congress to protect veterans’ rights and keep veteran issues at the forefront. Send a message or call using this link: https:// votervoice.net/VFW/Campaigns

ADVOCACY IN ACTION – Be an MVP and help move 'Bill' this month

The good news is that you don’t have to be a policy expert or travel to Washington, D.C., to make a difference. Advocacy often begins with simple actions taken right here at home:

• Contact your elected officials. A brief email, phone call, or letter can have a greater impact than you might think. Explain why an issue matters to veterans in your community. Facts are important, but personal stories have the greatest impact. Remember to ask for a response, and don’t be afraid to follow up using multiple methods of communication. Consider partnering with other Auxiliary members in your District. Legislators may be more likely to meet with a group, making this an excellent activity for your upcoming Legislative Day event. Find your legislators HERE ️

• Attend a town hall meeting. With elections approaching, many elected officials are spending more time in their communities. Take advantage of these opportunities to ask questions and discuss issues affecting veterans and their families.

  • US Rep. OK-1 Kevin Hern virtual town hall sign-up

  • US Rep. OK-2 Josh Brecheen town hall schedule

  • US Rep. OK-3 Frank Lucas town hall page

  • US Rep. OK-4 Tom Cole website

  • US Rep. OK-5 Stephanie Bice events page

• Share information. As Sir Frances Bacon wrote, “Knowledge is power.” Learn about the issues that matter to veterans, then share that information with fellow members, family, and friends. Encourage others - especially new members! - to sign up for VFW Action Corps so they can stay informed and become involved. Sign up for VFW Action Corps HERE

Together, let’s harness ‘The Power of One’ to keep legislation moving forward and ‘Serving America’s Heroes’ by ensuring that the voices of Oklahoma’s veterans are heard at every level of government. As you participate in advocacy efforts, please remember to report your activities. Your actions may inspire others to become involved, strengthening our collective voice on behalf of veterans. A special thank you to 474 Muskogee and 1317 Shawnee for leading the way with their legislative reporting. Your commitment to advocating on behalf of our veterans is setting an excellent example for the Auxiliaries across Oklahoma.