Ready to take action? Below are ways you can get involved.
> Stay Informed
- Join the Action Alert Network. Sign up to receive up-to-date information on issues affecting people living with MS in our region and take action on legislation that matters. With a few easy clicks, you can send emails to your public officials about why these issues are important to you. Sign up at www.nationalmssociety.org/MSActivist.
- Find out more about our Chapter's advocacy efforts.
- Follow the National MS Society's activism efforts on Twitter.
- Subscribe to our blog updates using the box to the right.
> Share Your Story
Tell us how MS has impacted your life and what issues are important to you. These stories help drive change.
- Contact us to share your MS story. We may share your stories with elected officials to help them understand the important of issues affecting the MS community. You can also share your story with friends, neighbors, colleagues to raise awareness.
- Spread the word via social media. When you take action, post about it on social media and tag your post with the hashtags #MSactivist and #WeMoveMS.
- Write a letter to the editor. This is an easy way to share your story about how multiple sclerosis has affected your life with the public and call for action. Write a brief, persuasive letter, be thoughtful and polite, and be sure to ask for the action you want. Editors are mostly likely to publish a letter no longer than 150-250 words. Remember to include your full name and address.
> Learn About the Issues
The National MS Society works on a variety of issues on the local, state, and federal levels. Learn what we're doing in the Northwest on this blog or by visiting our website. Find out more about federal-level issues here or on the Society's national advocacy blog.
> Get to Know Your Public Officials
Who represents you? The role of elected officials is to represent the needs of their communities. MS activists must connect with them, share the stories of MS and communicate their needs. It's easy to find out who represents you, whether you live in Washington, Montana, or Alaska.
If given the opportunity to speak with an elected official, be brief and direct: what is multiple sclerosis, how has it impacted you and how would a policy change enhance or hinder your quality of life until we end MS forever? Click here for more advice on preparing for a meeting with your legislator. If you're interested in scheduling a visit with an elected official, let us know.
> Get Online -- Be a Digital Activist
Use social media, email, and other forms of digital communication to speak up for people living with MS. Find resources here.
> Explore more opportunities.
Interested in getting more involved? Contact us.
Northwest Regional Resources
- National MS Society, Greater Northwest Chapter: Advocacy
- Who Represents You? Find your legislators in Washington, Montana, and Alaska.
Federal Resources
