2423 - Becoming an Effective Policy Advocate

Session Submission Type: Workshop

Description

In the age of “alternative facts” and “post truth,” the role of academics in policy debates is more important than ever. Unfortunately, few academics have been trained in how to be effective policy advocates, and there are often institutional barriers that make it difficult for them to engage in advocacy. Drawing on one of the facilitator’s years of experience in on-the-ground drug policy reform and the other’s expertise on public scholarship, this workshop will provide participants with information about how policy really gets made and the unique role of scholars in advancing policy reform. The workshop will cover: the role of researchers in influencing policy, strategies for engaging and developing relationships with key policymakers, working with advocacy groups to generate new legislation and/or support existing policy campaigns, using the media to advance reform, and the function of research in a “post-truth,” “alternative facts” policy environment. The workshop will also address how to overcome common obstacles to participating in policy advocacy, including lack of time and institutional incentives for doing so.

Sub Unit

• Workshops / Professional Development Workshop

Session Organizer

• Julie C. Netherland, Drug Policy Alliance

Co-Leader

• Jessie Daniels, City University of New York-Hunter College and The Graduate Center