Watch. Listen. Speak Up.
"Politics ought to be the part-time profession of every citizen who would protect the rights and privileges of free men." ~ President Dwight D. Eisenhower
Communicate with People
Put a campaign sign in your yard.
Wear a campaign button or tee shirt to the grocery store or other outing.
When you see someone else sporting Democratic messages, introduce yourself and let them know you agree.
Let family and friends know you're a Democrat and who Democrats really are--not the caricatures that political opponents may try to portray.
No need to fight--just explain politely and clearly what you are for (not against) if someone appears receptive. Always give them a chance to be heard. Most people care about many of the same things: Figure out how you can create that conversation about what we all care about.
Drop in on a meeting and just listen to what political clubs and activist groups are talking about. See if you have things in common. See if they have a compelling mission you want to support.
Go to forums, open houses and debates where you can see and hear a candidate up close--and get your questions answered. You will have a better idea about a person than you get from political ads and stump speeches.
Get together with people who seem to care about some of the things you care about and discuss what we can do to make those dreams realities.
In late winter and early spring, when campaigns begin in earnest, host a candidate at your home and invite friends and neighbors to a meet and greet.
Volunteer to Knock on Doors and Make Phone Calls--or Something Less Intimidating
Locate the Democartic precinct chair in your neighborhood and ask if there is something you can do.
Tell the Democratic precinct chair what skills you have that may be helpful.
If you're not ready to knock on doors or make phone calls, you can write postcards to remind fellow Democrats about elections or how to get information.
Offer your house for the precinct chair to hold a meeting and invite your neighbors.
Most political messaging is communicated most effectively one-on-one:
Instead of urging people to vote for your candidate, ask them what they want and report it back to your candidate. Then follow up and let them know the candidate's position or other information about their issue.
Be sure people know when and how to register and vote.
Be sure people know when and how to vote by mail.
Be sure people know about your candidate or issue and why they should vote for them.
If you believe in a candidate or cause, ask if you can help them.
Help people solidify a plan for voting so they follow through.
Show your support for others by showing up at meetings, rallies and other events.
We are braver and stronger when we are not alone.
The upcoming election will be a battle for the soul of America, and it is a battle, not the war. Preparation for that battle begins now--not just before Election Day.
Many people with many talents are needed. You can choose to be involved in many ways--from doing administrative work behind the scenes to making speeches and organizing people--with scores of jobs in between. How you are involved is less important than that you are involved.