So, What Can YOU Do About This?

Sally here. :) I've been thinking about what the average person can do to speak their mind, and maybe you'd like to hear? I thought so. ;)

First of all, to whom to write? In this case, there's no legislation up for consideration. The AMA and ACOG have simply stated that they encourage whatever political entities might so desire, to create legislation based on their ideas. Well, we, the people, have ideas as well. So, pick your favorite:

reply directly to ACOG and AMA

send a letter to your local hospital

write to your local senator and representative about this issue that might be brought up next legislative session

reply to supporters of birth place choice, and thank them

What to write? Well, your opinion, based on facts; and a simple request. For example: "The AMA has recently suggested that the only safe place for childbirth is in a hospital or birth center. I disagree based on this information:.... If a bill comes up that attempts to restrict birth place choice, please vote against it. Thanks." Something like that.

How to write? I searched the web for suggestions on how to write persuasively and kindly, because in my experience, when I'm passionate about something, it's hard to be nice. Well, it's challenging to sift through the emotions and craft a concise statement of opinion based on fact that someone completely uninformed about my passionate beliefs can readily understand. It takes practice, but it's worth it.

I'm refraining from crafting a letter that you can adapt to your own needs because just as I believe you all to be competent, intelligent folks who can make the best birth and parenting decisions for your family, based on your needs, I think you can decide to whom to write and what to say. Your words will communicate your sincerity better than a copied and pasted letter.

Here are some links that may help:

Tips for Writing Your Senator

Become an Instant Activist

A Soft Complaint
(an essay, actually, for an English class, but interesting nonetheless)

Why Don't We Complain?
a 1961 essay by William F. Buckley, Jr. While the reasons we don't complain until we're ready to blow our tops are different than 40 years ago, I think he still makes some interesting points.

~S~