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Share Your Views – Your Representatives Want to Know
Harold Kirtz, CRC Chair

In this election year, it is more important than ever to speak out to public office holders, policy makers and political candidates. In fact, one may consider it our responsibility as citizens to share our views and their responsibility to listen and respond. Too often we sacrifice that right and then are disappointed with the results. Elected officials value hearing from their constituents. Our state legislators each have a computer right at their chamber desk to help them stay in touch.

Here are some tips to help you communicate with them and to follow the progress of

First, know who represents you. Log on to http://www.vote-smart.org and type in your zip code. This web site will give you a complete listing of your elected representatives. Or call the Secretary of State's office at (404) 656-2871.

How can I contact my state representative or senator? Every member has an e-mail address, but many prefer to communicate in person or via phone or mail. Any method is acceptable. Find your legislators' contact information at www.legis.state.ga.us or call House information at (800) 282-5800 or Senate information at (800) 282-5803.

How did my legislators vote? Voting records are online by bill number, not by legislator; it may take up to five days for vote information to be posted. Go to www.legis.state.ga.us and click on "House" or "Senate." Then click on "Votes" for a complete roll call of how each member voted on a bill.

How do I contact other state agencies? The state of Georgia web site is www.georgia.gov. There you will find links to state, as well as many federal and local web resources.

Need a guide to taking action? The Federation's Community Relations Committee just published the 7th edition of Nuts & Bolts of Politics: Giving You The Tools You Need To Be A Jewish Political Activist in Georgia.

This handy guide includes a wealth of resources to aid you in communicating with public officials at every level of government, as well as media contact sources, tips for letter writing and much more. For a copy call (404) 870-1612 or e-mail mdixgold@jfga.org.