Free workshops will teach public how to advocate for civil rights
CONCORD, N.H. - The ACLU of New Hampshire announced the launch of the first-ever ACLU of NH Advocacy Academy, a statewide training series that will empower civil rights advocates on how to talk to different audiences, tell their stories, and make a difference when it comes to civil liberties in the Granite State. The first series, the Advocacy Academy on Gender, will take a deep dive into what still needs to be accomplished for transgender rights--whether it be through state legislation or as part of the upcoming 2020 presidential primary. Find upcoming dates here.
"The most powerful voices in any democracy are those of the people, and through these workshops we are helping advocates harness their voices and empowering them to make a difference," said Devon Chaffee, Executive Director of the ACLU of New Hampshire. "We are thrilled to launch the first Advocacy Academy on Gender, which will build on the success of New Hampshire's transgender nondiscrimination laws made last year and ensure that this generation of advocates has every tool to continue the conversation."
“As an organizer and advocate myself, I’ve learned a multitude of skills that have helped me be more effective and successful at advocating for civil rights,” said Palana Belken, Transgender Education and Advocacy Program Organizer at the ACLU of New Hampshire. “The passing of last year’s anti-discrimination bill was the first of many steps to achieve a transgender lived equality in the Granite State. There is still much work to be done here, and many ways to use your talents to advocate for this community.”
At the no-cost workshops, ACLU staff, special guests, and participants will work on how to tell a story of self and talk to different audiences, such as tailoring a speech to be informal for a rally, or a more formal testimony to lawmakers. More details about the workshops, set to take place in Concord, Keene, Durham, Plymouth, and Somersworth starting in February, will be announced on ACLU of New Hampshire social media.