📣Creating Change by Passing Local Resolutions📑
Here at Beyond Plastics, we believe that solutions to the plastics crisis require regulatory change and that our true power lies in our roles as residents and social actors.
One powerful tool to create regulatory change is passing local resolutions. A resolution is a formal written acknowledgment adopted by a governing body that expresses their will or intent on a particular matter. In the case of advocating for policy change, resolutions are an important part of demonstrating support from local governments.
Below, Natalie Russianoff our development and outreach coordinator shares her own experience of presenting to community boards in New York City in pursuit of passing resolutions to support plastics reduction policies and offers some tips to help you get started.
In May of 2024, I visited my first community board, Brooklyn 7. Arriving at the Board’s office, I had a pit in my stomach, formed from a mix of nerves and excitement. At my first foray into public speaking, there were five lovely community board members, two kind and well-versed staffers, and an array of local constituents, including a group trying to start a sailing non-profit in Sunset Park.
Despite the small and friendly audience, my nerves outpaced my excitement, and I bumbled my way through my presentation. Despite practicing numerous times, I forgot the order of some of my slides and had to adjust as the room reacted. I made it to the questions section and as I fielded thoughtful curiosities and feedback, I felt my internal tension ease. I remembered that everyone in the room cares deeply about their community. What I was bringing to them was information they wanted to hear.
As the next group began their presentation, Jeremy, the district manager came over to me and said, “You started out a little shaky, but then you hit your stride. When you started answering your questions, it was clear you knew what you were talking about. Great job.” I felt proud, relieved, and eager to try again.
Over the past several months, I have presented to ten community boards with more to come. Each presentation has taught me more about connecting with people, which is the true root of all effective organizing, as well as how to navigate the unique ways each board is structured. I became very comfortable with asking clarifying questions and learning as I went. Based on these experiences, I have a few suggestions for you:
You can use a colleague’s slides as a starting point but make sure to adjust them to make sure the flow makes sense to you.
Try to meet with people in person, it’s more fun and also a good reminder of how much we all care.
The best way to learn is by doing so get out there and get started.
To echo what Jeremy told me, I do know what I’m talking about and so do YOU!
Thanks to several brilliant Beyond Plastics Network members, and with deep gratitude to the many community boards who have hosted us, we have now passed 16 resolutions in support of plastics reduction! If you are nervous about speaking to your town board, that’s okay! It just means you care. Hold on to that feeling and let it guide you but do NOT let it stop you from trying.
The Beyond Plastics Network consists of five volunteer groups which include Local Groups, Affiliates, Advocates & Organizers, Speakers Bureau, and Community Partners. We offer online and offline support to ensure these groups have what they need to run campaigns for policy change. Supporting us = supporting them! We appreciate you!🙏
