Introduction
Advocacy is vital to ensure that the rights and needs of blind individuals in Canada are recognized and addressed by government agencies, businesses, educational institutions, and employers. This guide provides practical strategies to help you advocate effectively for accessibility, inclusion, and equal opportunities.
Some of the advocacy tools and techniques may be new to you and this is where the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) can help. We can provide mentoring support and resources that will help you address your advocacy issue.
What is Advocacy?
Advocacy is the art of persuasion, and about making one’s needs and views known. Advocacy may be necessary when:
A person’s rights are not being respected by an individual or institution (e.g. if a Blind student is denied course reading materials and exams in an accessible format of their choice).
A person is discriminated against because of their disability (e.g. if a taxi driver refuses to pick up a Blind person who has a Guide Dog).
A person is not receiving the supports or aids they require.
A person is denied the opportunity to voice their opinion on the kinds of supports, aids, or services they receive (e.g. if a service provider does not take into account, or disregards the individual's desires).
A person is treated in a disrespectful manner (e.g. if a salesperson addresses the Blind customer’s companion, rather than the Blind person directly).
Advocacy is necessary on a personal level to protect your rights, and to receive the supports and services you need and are entitled to. Advocacy is also needed at municipal, provincial and federal levels to promote issues important to the Blind community, as well as influence policymakers and other people in decision-making positions.
Individuals new to advocacy may feel uncomfortable standing up for their rights, at least at first. Connecting with organizations such as AEBC may be helpful in developing these skills, particularly since we can provide valuable opportunities to practice advocacy through our many advocacy efforts.
For tips from seasoned advocates see the supplement called Advocacy Tips from Seasoned Advocates.
Understanding Your Rights
Before advocating, it is essential to be well-informed about your legal rights and protections. Key Canadian legislation includes:
Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms: Ensures equality rights and protection from discrimination based on disability.
Accessible Canada Act (ACA): Aims to achieve a barrier-free Canada by 2040.
Canadian Human Rights Act: Prohibits discrimination based on disability and mandates reasonable accommodations.
Provincial Accessibility Legislation:
The Advocacy Process
Successful advocacy involves a number of steps. From preparation and planning to the follow-through and follow-up of a determined course or courses of action, there are important tasks one must perform, in order to increase the likelihood of achieving your goal(s). This section describes the four different advocacy steps and the tasks involved with each; there is also a checklist after step two, to ensure you are ready to proceed to the action phase--step three.
Step One: Preparation
The first step is preparing for advocacy, and this involves four different components: assessing the situation, defining the issue, gathering information, and identifying supports.
a) Assess the Situation
The first step in solving a problem is to identify it. You need to start by properly assessing what actually occurred. Were you not being heard, or were you being treated disrespectfully or denied equitable access? Who was involved? Where did it happen? And what are the consequences of this problem? It is also important to identify what has been done, thus far, to resolve the situation, and whether or not similar situations have occurred in the past, and if the experiences are linked.
For instance, perhaps a taxi driver refused to pick you up because you travel with a guide dog. It is important to note when and where this happened, who the taxi driver was (if possible), the taxi company, and the consequences of this happening (Were you late for work or an appointment? How did this situation make you feel?)
You may also want to investigate whether this driver or company has done this before, and if this is the case, perhaps ask others who have had similar experiences to work with you in changing the company’s policy, or if they do have a non-discrimination policy, to actually enforce it.
b) Define the Issue
Defining the issue is important for goal-setting during the planning stage (step two). Without a proper definition of the issue at hand, inappropriate goals may be set.
c) Gather Information
If you have been denied something, it is important to know the reason for the denial. Ask for the specific law or policy that was used to make the decision. It is also useful to research what others have done in similar situations, and the subsequent resolutions.
d) Identify Supports
There are different ways to find supports. You may want to check with:
The Internet.
The website of the agency or organization that turned down your request.
Other persons who are blind, deafblind or partially sighted.
Consumer organizations.
Service providers.
Relevant government organizations.
Elected officials.
Family, friends, and neighbours.
Step Two: Planning
The second step--planning, occurs after the issue and supports have been properly assessed and identified, and prior to any action taking place. There are five components or tasks to this stage; determining the goal, identifying preferred solutions and resources available, choosing a course of action, and developing a strategy.
a) Determine Goal(s)
Now that the problem has been established, it is now time to determine the goal(s) or objective(s) you want to achieve. Goals may include changing a policy or law, appealing a decision, receiving an apology for mistreatment or discrimination, or ensuring that the same situation never occurs again.
It is important to know what you want to accomplish and to be as specific as possible. Goals should be achievable, and typically, approached one at a time. Sometimes many steps are required to achieve a larger goal, such as the creation of a program or policy, or the eradication of the high levels of unemployment and poverty that persons who are Blind, Deafblind and partially sighted experience.
Other examples of goals include:
A college or university will provide to Blind, Deafblind and partially sighted students, exams and course materials in the student’s format of choice, within a timely manner.
A grocery store will educate its employees about serving patrons who are Deafblind.
A taxi company will enact a policy or enforce its policy regarding guide dogs always being allowed in its taxi cabs.
A service provider will apologize for mistreatment.
A bank will provide financial statements in Braille.
A media outlet will use appropriate language when referring to persons with disabilities.
A television ad will provide all on-screen, written information, such as contact information, audibly.
Election candidacy information will be available in format of choice (including large print, Braille, and electronically.)
b) Identify Preferred Solution(s)
Keeping in mind the definition of the issue at hand (from step one) and the determined goal, identify various solutions, from most to least preferred.
In some cases, the preferred solution will be the same as the goals identified previously, but not always. For example, if one’s goal is to eradicate poverty or make voting accessible, specific solutions on how to do this will be necessary.
Check to make sure the solution(s) match the identified goal(s), and don’t be afraid of making a wish list with several items, as long as you know that you will likely only be able to work on one at a time, or may need to give up one or two, in concession for something else.
c) Identify Resources
It is important to determine what resources are reasonably available for advocacy. These include your time, financial resources, social supports, access to phones, meeting rooms and computers, and even the energy you are able to expend.
What can you reasonably allot to this issue? And if the issue appears too large, are there smaller steps that you can take to work towards the end goal?
d) Choose Course(s) of Action
Having determined the goal, preferred outcome(s), and available resources, it is now time to decide upon a course of action. This may involve checking with others to see what has been successful in the past.
Be careful not to rush this stage. Choosing an inappropriate or unachievable course of action can set you up for failure. That said, you can always adjust your course of action, if it doesn’t seem to be working or doesn’t fit what you have set out to accomplish.
e) Develop Your Strategy
It is now time to develop and flesh out your chosen strategy. The destination has been chosen, and now it is a matter of deciding how to get there. Strategize available methods, such as making phone calls, holding a meeting, writing a letter of complaint, or even alerting the media. Establish reasonable deadlines for action and follow-up, and review the tactics you plan to employ. These tactics may include:
Education: This may include public education, or education of an individual or agency, including elected officials.
Reminding: This involves serving as a ‘watchdog’ who reminds individuals and agencies of existing policies and laws, and encouraging their enforcement.
Pressure: This includes soliciting and demonstrating public support, such as through petitions, letter writing or protest, and/or contacting the media.
Negotiation: This involves talking over the issue and arranging mutually agreeable terms.
Filing a complaint: This may involve writing a letter or requesting a meeting, or starting a formal complaint process against an individual or agency.
Using legal and political systems: This includes advocating for revisions, additions and removals of legislation, such as municipal by-laws and provincial and federal Acts, as well as civil law suits.
********************
Advocacy Checklist: Are You Ready to Proceed?
Adapted from Speak Up and Be Heard: Steps to Effective Advocacy by the Child and Youth Officer for British Columbia.
I know what happened, when and where it happened, and who was involved, and can describe the issue clearly and concisely.
I know the reasons why I didn’t get what I asked for.
I know what I am entitled to according to the law, regulations, or policy.
I have found out whether or not there is a complaint, review or appeal process.
I have identified possible supports.
I have investigated possible solutions.
I know how I want this situation to be resolved.
I know what resources are available to me.
I have kept notes about the issue, steps I have taken to resolve the situation, including the names of people I have spoken to, the dates I contacted them, and what was said.
I have planned how I want to proceed with my advocacy.
I have rehearsed what I am going to say, and how I want to say it.
********************
Step Three: Action
It is now time to put into action the strategies that you have defined and developed, in the preceding steps.
It is imperative to keep accurate and organized records of the dates and names of people you have spoken with, and the outcomes of such discussions. Be sure to keep a copy of all incoming and outgoing correspondence, such as letters and emails, and notes about the steps you have taken to resolve the situation.
If you are denied your request, try to obtain the reasons in writing. If you decide to pursue further action you will need this information as evidence.
It is important to follow up discussions, meetings and other correspondence by phone, letter, email or in-person. Following up demonstrates that you are in fact serious about the requests or demands you have made, and also keeps people accountable to their word. The appropriate timing of follow-up varies, depending on the situation. Be sure to continue to follow-up even if earlier attempts are unsuccessful, and record all follow-up attempts.
Step Four: Evaluation
The final stage of the advocacy process is evaluation. This is when you examine the strategies you have utilized, and determine whether or not your goals have been met. Has education occurred, awareness increased, or public attention been brought to your issue? Who are new supporters? Have any new resources developed? These are all factors to keep in mind when evaluating one’s success.
Upon evaluation, decisions need to be made about whether or not you should continue with the advocacy, and/or adjust your tactics or focus. At this point, you may need to develop new strategies, goals, and techniques. Or, you may decide that the advocacy has concluded.
Be sure to pat yourself on the back for the important work you have done; you may not have achieved all that you set out to do, but the fact that you stood up for yourself or for an issue, is reason in itself to celebrate!
Advocacy Techniques and Strategies
There are three different ways to contact people that are key to resolving your problem: in person, by telephone, and in writing (by mail or email). You may need to use a variety of methods, depending upon the situation. However, regardless of the approach you choose, it is important to record each correspondence or interaction, as this information may be required in the future, particularly if your needs are not met during initial stages of advocacy.
No matter how you choose to advocate, you will be involved in some sort of communication, and your ability to effectively communicate will increase your chances of success. For more, refer the supplement Effective Communication.
Advocating In Person
When determining the physical location of the meeting, it is important to be aware of potential power imbalances; typically, whoever’s space the meeting is held at, holds more power. Thus, it may be useful to meet at a neutral location, or a place where you feel comfortable. That said, always be careful about having the meeting in your own home, as this may actually shift the power balance away from yourself in some circumstances.
Be sure to confirm the exact time and location of the meeting, where parking is available or which bus arrives closest to the destination. Plan on arriving to the meeting not only on time, but with plenty of time to spare.
Prior to the meeting, make a list of any documents you may need, such as identification and previous correspondence. It is generally a good idea to bring as much information as you can related to the advocacy situation, as long as it is organized and easy to retrieve.
It may also be helpful to bring someone with you to the meeting, such as a translator, witness, note-taker, or support person. If this is the case, decide with this person, in advance, what specifically their role will be.
Below is a summary of things to prepare for, before, during and after the meeting. Indeed, it is important to be prepared whenever one is doing advocacy, and this is especially true when meeting in person. Being prepared strengthens your position or argument, thereby increasing your chances of success.
Before the meeting:
Know your goals and intentions.
Do your homework about the person you are meeting with. Do they have any personal experience with disability?
Plan and review what you are going to say.
Make a list of your reminders.
Practice your message.
Anticipate the response of the other person in order to better strengthen and defend your position.
Confirm the exact time and location of the meeting.
Find out where parking is available or the appropriate bus to take.
Decide who you are bringing with you to the meeting, and confirm what their role will be.
Bring along all documentation relevant to the meeting.
Dress appropriately.
Arrive with time to spare.
During the meeting:
Be polite and courteous.
Thank the person for meeting with you.
If there are people at the meeting you don’t know, ask who they are and why they are there.
Make sure everyone attending understands why this meeting is being held.
Present your most important points first.
Clearly state the problem and your proposed solution.
Stick to the topic at hand.
Take notes.
If something is unclear, ask for clarification.
Be careful not to become ‘too comfortable’ or mistake courtesy for agreement.
If you become emotional, ask for a break.
State your observations (e.g. if people aren’t willing to commit to action).
End the meeting with an agreed upon plan of action, including deadlines.
After the meeting:
Review your notes about the meeting, being sure to add who was at the meeting (names and titles) and any decisions made.
Send a follow-up letter or email, or call the person you met with, thanking them for meeting with you, and confirming any agreements reached.
Advocating Over the Phone
In some cases, picking up the phone is the simplest way of solving a problem. However, in order to make the call most effective, it is best to be prepared, and know what you are going to say prior to dialing. It may be useful to have notes handy on relevant points, as well as other information related to your situation.
When making a call, do not launch into a full-blown account of your situation; first, make sure you are speaking to the right person. It may take several phone calls to reach the appropriate person, so give yourself some time and try not to become frustrated.
Be sure to take notes during the conversation, and record information such as the full names and titles of people you spoke with, and dates and details of calls. And, if you don’t seem to be getting anywhere with the person you are talking with, ask if there is someone else you can speak to.
Before the phone call:
Know your goals and intentions.
Plan and review what you are going to say.
Write down reminders you can refer to.
Have available any documents you may need.
During the phone call:
Be polite and courteous.
Make sure you are speaking to the correct person.
Clearly state the problem and your proposed solution.
Stick to the topic at hand.
Take notes.
If something is unclear, ask for clarification.
Confirm any agreements and deadlines, and ask for them in writing.
Ask if there are others you need to speak to, if necessary.
Thank the person for their time.
After the phone call:
Document the call (include person’s name, full title, date of call, and outline of discussion).
Send a follow-up letter or email, thanking them for their time, and confirming any decisions.
Refer to the Appendix for a Sample Record of Telephone Conversation.
Advocacy Through Writing
Advocacy in writing may involve sending a letter or email – or both. Typically, letters add a more formal and serious note to the advocacy process. That said, email may be a more accessible or easier means of communicating.
Whether you are sending a letter or an email, it is important to keep copies of all the correspondence you send out, as well as any you receive; keep it all together in a way that is easy to locate, preferably with other information related to the situation you are advocating about.
In some cases, it may be helpful to copy your letter or email to another person or organization. For example, you may wish to carbon copy a consumer organization you belong to, such as the Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians, or related government agency. Be mindful of confidentiality if advocating for another person, and be sure that you have their express permission whenever you share any correspondence.
When advocating in writing:
Decide on the goal of the email/letter.
Make an outline or draft of the major points you wish to make.
Decide on the best recipient for the letter/email.
Decide on any individuals or agencies to copy on the letter/email.
Make sure names are spelled correctly.
Clearly state the problem and your proposed solution.
Be concise; give specific, factual information to make your point, and avoid giving too much or unnecessary detail.
Be mindful of your tone.
If you want a response, indicate this, and suggest a reasonable period to acknowledge your concerns.
Have someone else proofread your letter/email.
If you are upset when you write the letter/email, don’t send it until you have calmed down and reread it.
Make sure the letter is dated.
Keep a copy for your file.
Follow up!
Refer to the Appendix for a Sample Format for Advocacy Letters.
Using the Media
Involving the media is a common advocacy strategy. Whether through letters to the editor, press releases, or formal or informal interviews, knowing how to communicate with the media is important in getting one’s message out. Refer to the supplement called Using the Media for Advocacy.
Case Studies
The following link will take you to some case studies illustrating a variety of real-life advocacy scenarios employed by and for persons with disabilities, including persons who are blind, deafblind and partially sighted. A variety of examples are provided which include tactics to employ – and avoid – when performing advocacy. Refer to the supplement called Advocacy Case Studies.
Resources
Visit AEBC’s Advocacy page for information about Our Advocacy Committee, past advocacy submissions, and our current position statements, projects and initiatives.
For more self-advocacy resources, do a Google search for “Self Advocacy Resources”.
Appendices
Sample Record of Telephone Conversation
Date:
Full name of person I spoke with:
Their position title:
Their phone number:
Their email address:
List of issues we discussed:
What I was told:
What I said:
What we agreed to:
Deadlines:
Follow up:
You can place these columns into an Excel spreadsheet if you are familiar with using Excel.
Sample Format for Advocacy Letters
On the top left-hand side, write your name and the date on separate lines
Press the enter key to space down a few lines then greet the individual using a salutation
In a world where gender fluency is becoming more common, observed, and appreciated, greet the person using their full name if you are not sure of their preferred pronouns. If you would prefer to use a salutation, ‘Mx’ would be the safest usage, as it signifies ‘they.’
Paragraph 1 should be used to state your purpose for writing the letter
Paragraph 2 should give the full detail of the issue and your experience with it. Be concise and avoid unnecessary detail
Paragraph 3 should propose a solution and how the person you’re addressing can be of assistance
Finally, thank the person for their time and include your contact information
Space down afterwards, finish with ‘Sincerely,’
A few more spaces, then write your full name.