DUE IN 5 HOURS!!
Lobbying and Advocacy
Based on what you have read this week describe the difference between lobbying and advocacy. Discuss an issue that you strongly believe should be advocated for in your field or by your discipline or community.
- What data or evidence would you provide to your Congressperson, Senator or Community representative if you were going to lobby or advocate on behalf of that issue?
- Analyze the role a human service provider plays in influencing policy decisions on a Federal, State and/or local level.
HUM5300 Week 1 Instructor Guidance
Throughout this course you will get a broad overview of the laws and regulations that govern human services disciplines. Some of you will be pursuing social services which are governed by county laws and regulations which typically stem from federal regulations. Some of you will be pursuing non-profit work which also has a different degree of governing and bylaws. We will explore how they govern and change from a state to state level and national level. In this first week, It all begins with policy you will gain an understanding of the foundation on which human services derives. Building upon this foundation is an understanding of the process of legislative and community advocacy: a process where human service and professional organizations engage in lobbying efforts to encourage action on current issues affecting the provision of services, consumer rights, or professional autonomy. Some of you may be able to relate it to work or agencies you are currently employed in or be able to understand how it relates to areas you wish to pursue once your degree is completed.
There is no written assignment for the first week (dont worry, there will definitely be some coming!) so I encourage you to put critical thought and perspective into your discussion post and your replies to your classmates. Your discussion for this week will center on lobbying and advocacy which you will find is a major component in human services work.
Some videos to get you thinking:
