Standing up, speaking out, and getting involved in issues that you care about can be very rewarding.
The key is to understand a couple of important basics that will help you be effective at championing your cause.
Adult smokers and dippers often face new taxes and unfair regulations. Prepare yourself by understanding the issues. Then learn how to watch for developments where you live!
Click here for primers on tobacco taxes and restrictions and how they affect you.
Find sources for news about tobacco issues and how to use Internet tools to your advantage.
Elected officials are people too. They listen to those they know and trust – including constituents who demonstrate that they are interested and engaged. Click on the links below to get some tips on building a relationship with your legislator:
Print out our easy to use legislator contact sheet and keep it in a handy place.
It’s as easy as making a phone call or popping by a district office. Get some tips on how to meet your legislator and how to get on their radar.
Ongoing communication is the key to all good relationships – including the one you’ll have with your legislators. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Tobacco issues probably aren’t the only things you care about. Find out what your legislator cares about - their agendas - and how they feel about yours!
Especially in today’s highly polarized environment, it’s important that your messages break through the clutter. Learn how to personalize your communications and make your letters, emails, and phone calls more effective.
Personalization and substance are key! Get some tips and tools on more effective writing.
Calling your legislator may seem nerve-wracking, but here is a blueprint to make it simple and easy.
These open forums are a great way to make your voice heard – especially with a little preparation beforehand. Learn how to make the most of your time at a town hall or meeting.
Advocacy is a blend of quality and quantity – and there is power in numbers. If you know other adult smokers and dippers who care about these issues, help them get started! You can use the tools on this site, social media, or even your local media to help get your message out.
If you’re enjoying Citizens for Tobacco Rights, tell a friend (or a bunch of friends) about the group!
If it seems like everybody’s on Facebook, it’s because millions and millions truly are. Learn how to use social media sites like Facebook and Twitter to share your point of view.
Newspapers and radio are still an important source of news. Get some tips on how to reach out to your local media outlets and make your voice heard.