In today’s politically charged atmosphere, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, especially if you lean towards introversion. The recent events surrounding various government policies and appointments can be frustrating. From questionable cabinet picks to controversial executive orders, many of us have felt the urge to take action. But for those of us who shy away from the spotlight, finding a way to engage politically can be daunting. This is where the platform ‘5 Calls’ comes into play.
5 Calls operates on a straightforward yet powerful idea: phone calls to your elected officials really matter. Emily Park, a former congressional aide, emphasizes that social media comments and emails often go unnoticed. She recalls, “I rarely checked those comments unless it was to delete something inappropriate.” Email overload can make it difficult for staffers to respond to every message personally. However, phone calls? They demand attention. If a pattern of calls emerges, it often prompts discussions in the office about the issue at hand. Simply put, making a call is one of the most effective ways to communicate your concerns to your representatives.
For many, the thought of making a call can induce anxiety. What should you say? How should you start? 5 Calls eliminates the guesswork. By entering your zip code, you can choose from a variety of pressing issues to address. Once you select a topic, the platform provides you with contact information for your representatives along with a simple script to guide your conversation. This helps alleviate the stress of talking to someone live, allowing you to express your thoughts more clearly.
Recently, I reached out to my senators regarding the border wall and the confirmation of Betsy Johnson as education secretary. I also contacted the Army Corps of Engineers about the Dakota Access Pipeline’s construction resumption. Before using 5 Calls, I wouldn’t have known who to reach out to regarding these matters. The fact that I often encountered busy lines or full voicemail boxes showed me that I wasn’t alone—many others were also taking the initiative.
Since its inception, 5 Calls has facilitated over 202,000 calls to various lawmakers. This represents a significant wave of activism, with citizens demanding a return to the values we hold dear. Tech Crunch has referred to 5 Calls as “the easiest way to call your reps yet.” Now is the time to pick up your phone, head over to 5calls.org, and join the movement for change. Our democracy needs everyone on board, especially now.
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In summary, while introversion may pose challenges in political engagement, tools like 5 Calls are designed to empower you. By simplifying the process of contacting your representatives, you can make your voice heard, contribute to meaningful change, and participate actively in our democracy.