Nuclear Advocacy Network Toolkit

The Nuclear Advocacy Network Advocacy Toolkit explains advocacy tactics and techniques geared toward public advocacy for the nuclear power community. The Toolkit includes a sample letter to a legislator, nuclear facts and talking points, and tips on how to successfully communicate with legislators and their staff.

The most important questions to ask when embarking on an advocacy initiative are “Who are your targets?” and “What do you want to accomplish?”

COMMUNICATION
Legislators receive thousands of e-mails, faxes, calls and letters every year. To be an effective advocate, it is important to make your communication stand out. Some helpful tips on communicating effectively to a legislator include:

1)	Personalize your letter. Tell a short story to illustrate your point and make a personal connection with the reader.
2)	Write clearly. Do not assume the legislator understands the technical terms you use every day. It is helpful to communicate clearly without overusing technical jargon.
3)	What’s your point? Let your legislator know what direct action he or she can take to support nuclear and help the nuclear community. Linking your communication to a specific piece of legislation or a pending vote can be an effective mandate from a constituent.

Sample NAN letter to a legislator

The Nuclear Advocacy Network’s sister organization, North American Young Generation in Nuclear, has launched a great plan on how to contact your legislator, set up meetings and communicate effectively during those meetings, NA-YGN Congressional Communication Plan.

GET THE FACTS
Nuclear facts included in your communication can get the point across to legislators. You can create a tailored message to your legislator’s congressional district, state and community with a little investigation. Here are some helpful links to the Nuclear Energy Institute and the American Nuclear Society.

TALKING POINTS
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission often hosts public meetings on relicensing applications, public safety and environmental issues. Your elected representatives in Congress often host similar forums, or town hall meetings, in their home districts to hear directly from their constituents. Both NRC meetings and congressional town hall meetings are excellent opportunities to engage in nuclear advocacy and build community support for nuclear. Here are some Nuclear Advocacy Talking Points that you can use in public forum settings.

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