Talk to Your Politicians!
Wednesday 1 December, 2010In a democratic society, we have unprecedented privileges. Although democracy was birthed among the Greeks, “we the people” have unrivaled ability to choose those who represent us, to shape policy debates and to affect the outcome of the legislation and laws that govern us. We have never been so priviledged historically, either in Britain or in¬†Western¬†society generally. This recognition contrasts greatly with the percieved frustration of many that their voice isn’t being heard and their views are not being represented.¬† Why?
The problem often lies in the fact that few people actually take advantage of and use the privileges of contributing to the debates and policy formation within our democratic institutions. The doors are open. Our voices can and usually are heard, but when we act collectively, each person valuing the contribution which they can make, that’s when our democratic privileges take on their amazing luster. How do we act? By phoning, writing or emailing your local representatives or by arranging to meet with them at their constituency offices.
The internet has made it exponentially easier to do this. You can find out which MLAs represent you locally, visit the websites for their constituency offices, contact them via email at the official Assembly website at www.niassembly.gov.uk or go to www.writetothem.com or www.theyworkforyou.com .
Allowing your voice to be heard does not end there. You can contact your Ministers over different departments within the Assembly, MPs, MEPs, local councils, Ofcom, the Advertising Standards Authority, the BBC… any number of different ombudsmen. The fact is, if enough of us use these avenues of expression, the policies and laws that affect our everyday lives might be¬†considerably different than they are today. Talk to your politicians, and pray for wise and well-informed decisions to be made on your behalf!