What is Grass Roots Politics
A program designed to influence policy-makers through the
mobilization of local community support (or opposition), is commonly known as a
“grass roots politics.”
The program increases the visibility of an issue and educates the public and local legislators of organized dentistry’s point of view.
The approach of each grass roots effort varies depending on the issue and the political dynamics. Some campaigns may be very sophisticated and may involve the use of media (newspapers, radio, and television) as well as a large number of dentists. Or the campaign may target selected legislators, being contacted only by dentists who know them well.
You can increase the effectiveness of your grass roots program in the following areas.
Learn the Issues
The first step to becoming involved in organized dentistry’s grass roots
program is learning the issues. You will need to be knowledgeable of
health care issues in general, and dentistry, specifically. As a small
businessperson, you should also be aware of salary and wage issues, taxes, and
demographics of your area.
The PUBLIC POLICY staff can provide you with information regarding issues that are being debated in the State Legislature and can also provide additional information about the political climate on such issues as managed care reform, licensure, and scope of practice.
Getting to Know Your Elected Officials
Establishing a trusting and good working relationship with a legislator
does take a little time. The benefits are enormous, however. Very
few people really take the time to get to know their elected officials and if
you have established yourself as a community leader and a credible source of
information on issues related to dentistry, they will look to you for your
opinions.
Begin the process by attending community events and forums and introduce yourself whenever possible. If you support an elected official or a candidate, follow through by volunteering in their campaign, getting involved in such activities as precinct-walking, putting up neighborhood signs, making telephone calls prior to and on election day, or by making a contribution to the campaign. Write letters of support directly to the official or candidate or write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper supporting this person. Become a member, if you’re not already, of the local chamber or rotary.
Again, the PUBLIC POLICY staff in Sacramento is available to help you decide which candidates or incumbents you may wish to support and will provide you with assistance in the process of getting to know them.
Get Your Message Out
You probably already belong to some civic or community organizations.
Joining these organizations increases your visibility professionally and also
from a political perspective. Along the way you will develop allies,
which makes it easier for you to get the message out about how dentistry fits
into the overall health care system.
People will not be aware of your viewpoint on dental health care issues until you provide them with the information.