How to become an advocate
Anyone can become an advocate. You may already be one.
Most likely you have been advocating for your child at home and the dental office. You can also be and advocate in any spaces that you encounter whether it is in your place of work, child’s school, dentist office, city government meetings, Medicaid boards, and state and/or federal legislatures. Wherever you maybe advocating, it is important to remember that when you stand up for your child’s rights, you are standing up for the rights of all Medicaid-enrolled children. The dental services that you receive for your child may also become available to other families.
If you are just beginning your advocacy journey or have experience, these steps will help you become an advocate or strengthen your advocacy skills:
- Understand the decision-making process.
- Set your advocacy goals or join an organization that aligns with your advocacy goals.
- Understand your audience.
- Practice your storytelling and public speaking.
- Connect with decision-makers via social media, email, meeting platforms, public forums or in person.
- ADVOCATE! Whatever advocacy methods you choose or whatever advocacy space you find yourself in, it is important to believe in yourself and your abilities. You are ready and you can do this!
Go to Step 3: Understanding the decision-making process to begin your self-advocacy training.