How To: Write Congress

Whether as a follow-up to an office visit or as a first contact, an email or a letter to your legislator can be an effective advocacy tool to help people with arthritis.

• Be brief and to the point. Clearly state and identify the arthritis issue about which you are concerned.
• Add support to your information and request, including your own personal story.
• Ask for a specific favorable commitment from your legislator.
• Include your address on the email or letter and envelope.

Why Your Legislators Will Listen To You

You can change the way your Senators and Representatives think about arthritis.

1. Arthritis is a serious, national health problem that the government must help confront.
2. You are unique because you have current information about research and other programs in arthritis and related conditions.
3. Keeping up-to-date on these issues is one of your legislator's responsibilities.
4. You are a registered voter in your legislator's home district and state.

Thank you for taking a moment to tell your Senators and U.S. Representatives how arthritis affects your life and for asking them to support Arthritis Advocacy Priorities.