learn how to advocate

Advocacy is a core component of NAMI's mission. Yet many NAMI members feel uncomfortable in talking with people in government. One should remember that the government is in the business of providing services to its citizens.  We elect members to represent us at the local, state, and national levels. As constituents, we should frequently communicate our ideas and concerns with them. NAMI's website has great tools to assist us in advocacy efforts.  Visit http://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Public-Policy  to become acquainted with these tools.  

Advocate at the national level

There are two bills being discussed in the hall of Congress--S 1945 and HR 2646, which passed unanimously on July 7, 2016.  HR 2646 goes to the Senate next. It is very encouraging to read about proposed legislation that will profoundly help individuals with mental illness; however, there is some degree of difference between the bills.  NAMI seeks compromise. 

Contact US Congressman Tom Graves, Georgia's Congressman in the 14th District and ask him to support legislation that helps people with mental illness. His phone number in Washington is 1-202-225-5211 and email is RepGraves@mail.house.gov.  Congressman Graves has a Rome office.  His contacts are Jackie Money and Linda Liles and can be reached at 706-290-1776 or by email, jackie.money@mail.house.gov andlinda.liles@mail.house.gov respectively.

Georgia's US Senators are

• Johnny Isakson, Washington phone: 202-224-3643 or email: https://www.isakson.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/email-me
• David Perdue, Washington phone: 202-224-3521 or email: https://www.perdue.senate.gov/connect/email

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Contact us!

Call our info line for more information about NAMI Rome and our programs: 706-506-5010

2016 Legislative Priorities

• Expand community resources and services to promote the successful community integration for people with mental illness who are re-entering from incarceration.
• End inappropriate incarceration of individuals with mental illness by expanding accessible Accountability Courts/Mental Health Courts for all Georgians.
• Provide appropriate, affordable housing for people living with mental illness.
• Ensure access to effective community mental health programs.
• Improve mental health services for children, youth, and young adults.

Vist www.namiga.org for up-to-date issues.

How do I contact my state legislator?

1. First, determine who you want to contact.
2. Either state senator or representative.
   1. Scroll down to locate the applicable map to use to look up the district you live in.
   2. Identify the district number.
3. Look up district by visiting the following website:  www.legis.ga.gov
   1. Navigate to either the "House of Representatives" or "State Senate."
   2. Search for appropriate district number and locate name.
   3. Click on his or her name to find contact information and list of committees he or she serves.
4. Make phone contact by identifying yourself, where you live, who you are with, and why you are calling.
   1. Be specific as to your advocacy need or request.
5. Or make email contact and follow the same as above.  Note: telephone is preferable.

Related Links Georgia House and Senate Districts. Go to site and click on the one you wish to see.


Last updated: 4/26/2015