Advocacy

What is Advocacy?

Advocacy is the act of supporting, promoting, and speaking out on behalf of a cause, community, or issue. Advocacy is at the heart of the UACCMN’s mission to amplify Ukrainian voices in the state of Minnesota and beyond. The UACCMN aims to raise awareness about issues affecting our community, to influence public policy, and ensure that Ukrainian voices are heard at all levels of government.

Why is Advocacy Important?

In a diverse, democratic society, it is crucial that citizens make their viewpoints on the policies impacting daily life known; advocacy is essential for ensuring that the needs and interests of the Ukrainian community are recognized and addressed.

The UACCMN’s Advocacy helps to:

• Protect and promote Ukrainian culture and heritage, ensuring that our traditions, language, and history are preserved and celebrated in Minnesota.
  
• Support Ukraine by advocating for continued U.S. support, especially during this time of war.
  
• Empower the Ukrainian community by fostering civic engagement and voter participation, and promoting the rights and interests of our community.

CONTACT YOUR REPRESENTATIVES:

Your voice matters!

One of the most effective ways to advocate for the Ukrainian community is to contact your elected officials. 

• Find Your Representatives:
  Visit Congress.gov and enter your zip code to find your Representatives and Senators.
• Prepare Your Message:
  Whether you write an email, send a letter, or make a phone call, be clear and concise:
  • Introduce Yourself
    Introduce yourself as a constituent, explain the issue you care about, and state what action you would like your Representative or Senator to take
• Reach Out: Send your message:
  • Email: Most Congressional websites have a contact form where you can submit your message.
  • Phone: Call the office of your Representative or Senator. Be polite, and ask to speak to the staff member who handles issues related to Ukraine or foreign policy.
  • Social Media: Engage your elected officials on platforms like X and Facebook. A well-placed post or comment can amplify your message.
  • Follow Up: If you do not receive a response, follow up with another email or phone call. Persistence can make a difference.