Does Citizen’s Action Work? Yes!
Get Results
Seriously, what’s the point? Can one call or one email or one protest really make a difference?
One call, one email, or one demonstration alone won’t change the world—but thousands of such actions can be a catalyst for change. Research shows that participation in one protest increases subsequent protest attendance. And as the organizers at Swing Left note: “Even in the best of times, civic engagement at a massive scale is necessary to ensure a government that reflects the will of the people.”
Need more proof? According to Everyday Activist, a lively Substack newsletter focused on citizen’s action, legislators’ offices often say:
10-20 calls or emails on an issue = noticed.
50+ calls or emails = flagged as a growing concern.
Hundreds of calls or emails = priority issue.
So make a recurring calendar alert on your phone and call or email at least once a week. Attend a protest or an organizing effort in your community. And encourage your friends and family to do the same.
Answers to the Dreaded “What Ifs”
What If your Rep already agrees with you? What’s the point?
Even if your representative supports your stance, calling and emailing reinforces that they have strong constituent backing.
It helps them justify taking stronger action.
It gives them more leverage when negotiating with colleagues.
It shows other lawmakers that public opinion is mobilized.
What if your Rep disagrees with you? What’s the point?
Even if your legislator is on the opposite side, your call or email still matters. Here’s why:
Politicians track public sentiment. If enough people call and write, it signals growing opposition. So even if they don’t change their vote, they might soften their stance.
Growing opposition builds pressure. Politicians are always thinking about reelection. If they see a shift in their district, they’ll take notice.
Keep the pressure on.
When constituents flood congressional offices with their concerns, when thousands of concerned citizens show up at protests and town hall meetings, policy shifts happen.