Writing for Advocacy Summer Series: Introduction

Writing for Advocacy Summer Series

How can you best employ the written word to influence decision-makers in today’s unprecedented political climate? In this four-part series of 90-minute seminars, we’ll explore the components of different forms of political writing for both writers and everyday citizens looking to change their corners of the world. Are letters to elected officials worth sending, and if so, what should they include—and what should they leave out? How do you use a personal story in an op-ed? What are talking points and what do you do with them? This series will walk you through some frameworks and provide tools for various types of writing for public advocacy, as well offer ideas for ways to amplify your voice after you’ve written your piece(s). Students should arrive with an issue or topic they would like to write about in mind. (In-depth knowledge of the issue, while helpful, isn’t necessary; interest and a willingness to learn are the only requirements.) Seminars may be taken individually, but students who attend the whole series and follow the concepts throughout will leave with the most in-depth understanding of how to weave together all the writing and advocacy concepts presented throughout the seminar. 

Introduction to Writing for Advocacy

In this seminar, we’ll go over key concepts of writing for advocacy. Who is an advocate, and how does an advocate define their goal? What are the different forms of writing for advocacy, and who is the audience for each? What elements must an advocate include in this type of political writing, what should they leave out, and what kinds of unique vocabulary considerations crop up in this context? If time allows, we’ll engage in a short writing exercise.

Please note: These sessions will be recorded, so if you're not able to attend or would rather not be recorded, please know GrubStreet will make this resource available after the series takes place.

This session is a part of our Writing For Advocacy Summer Series. Please follow the links below to register for the remaining sessions:

Writing for Advocacy Summer Series: Letters to Elected Officials (August 3rd, 6pm-7:30pm)

Writing for Advocacy Summer Series: Op-Eds (August 10th, 6pm-7:30pm)

Writing for Advocacy Summer Series: Amplifying Your Voice (August 24th, 6pm-7:30pm)

From Previous "Writing for Advocacy" Students: 

“The instructor was extremely well-prepared and stayed on-point throughout the entire workshop. There was not one wasted second!”

“This class is very well organized, chock full of useful and focused suggestions for approaching political writing on various levels. Also was encouraging for the novice writer, or anyone who wishes to present their opinions in useful ways, with specific tips about the most productive venues and formats for political writing. The instructor is very knowledgeable and experienced in writing and politics, which enhanced the content of her presentation.” 

“Tracy is a highly knowledgeable, organized and responsive instructor provides a wealth of information for anyone seeking to use the written word for political advocacy. In the process, she also gives us several relevant writing exercises so we can begin to put into practice what we’re learning. I couldn’t recommend her more highly.”