WESTMINSTER-A few days ago, I texted some of my family members to call their representatives to voice their opinion on a bill. Our family consists of both Democrats and Republicans, so I kept my request short.
Days later, my aunt, who is in her late 70s, replied that it was the first time she had ever reached out to her representatives. I was a bit stunned. I thought she had been doing so her entire life.
It led me to believe that perhaps when we talk about reaching out to our representatives like it is a normal activity, it might not be for some. In that spirit, I would like to share how easy it is to reach out to your delegation.
To call or email your delegation, visit house.gov or senate.gov. Select Senator or Representative from the menu and find your legislator by state. You will find their individual phone numbers.
In addition, clicking on the individual representative's name will direct you to their website. There, you can select "Contact" and fill out a form to submit your opinion or request. It is pretty straightforward and easy.
Phone numbers are often listed as 4-xxxx or 5-xxxx.
Washington, D.C.'s area code is 202.
The Senate office code is 224.
The House office code is 225.
Bernard Sanders's phone number is listed as 4-5141. This translates to 202-224-5141. Using the phone numbers will get you directly to the office of the person you are trying to reach.
Alternatively, you can call the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121 and ask to speak to an individual and they will transfer you.
For those looking for mobile support, you can download an easy-to-use app, 5 Calls. Once installed, add your ZIP code to tailor the app for you. Telephoning your representative is as easy as clicking on their picture.
Current events and scripts are listed if you find that helpful, but it is not necessary to use that part of the app.
It can feel overwhelming if you have never contacted your representatives before, but as my aunt commented, it was simpler than she thought. I also sensed some pride in her accomplishment.
Participating in our democracy can be as easy as making a phone call or sending an email.
Lori Larue
Westminster
This letter to the editor was submitted to The Commons.
This piece, published in print in the Voices section or as a column in the news sections, represents the opinion of the writer. In the newspaper and on this website, we strive to ensure that opinions are based on fair expression of established fact. In the spirit of transparency and accountability, The Commons is reviewing and developing more precise policies about editing of opinions and our role and our responsibility and standards in fact-checking our own work and the contributions to the newspaper. In the meantime, we heartily encourage civil and productive responses at [email protected].