Campaign Headquarters > Grassroots Campaign

Campaigns aren't just about debates and well-delivered sound bytes. If you're going to be successful on the trail, you've got to have strong people working for you on the ground. The same rule applies to "NLGJA Goes to Washington," and we need your help.

Now, we're not asking you to canvas your neighbors or harass people trying to eat breakfast at Denny's. Chances are they just won't care. There are, however, a few easy things you can do to spread the word within your newsroom and/or professional network.

Reach Out & E-Mail Someone
Believe it or not, a personal e-mail from you to your peers explaining why you support NLGJA and plan to attend “NLGJA Goes to Washington” is the best marketing opportunity we can possibly ask for. Take a minute and look at your address book, and use our headache-free sample e-mail message to get started. It's so much easier than going door to door.

Get NLGJA on the List
If you work in a newsroom (or know someone who does), consider approaching the folks who have access to the interdepartmental listserv and asking to blast a quick announcement about “NLGJA Goes to Washington.” Here's a sample:

The National Lesbian & Gay Journalists Association (NLGJA) will hold its 2008 National Convention & 5th Annual LGBT Media Summit on August 21-24 at the Hilton Washington in Washington, DC. Dubbed “NLGJA Goes to Washington ,” the conference will feature nearly 50 skills-building sessions and hot-topic panel discussions just months before Election 2008. Both members and non-members receive special discounted rates for registering before July 11. Visit nlgja.org for more information and to register online.

Also, don't forget about social networking sites like Facebook. This same blurb can easily be used for quick bulletin announcements.  

Request Bells & Whistles
So, we don't have bumper stickers and yard signs, but we do have brochures and postcards. If you would like additional copies of the convention brochure (available in May) or postcard, drop us a quick e-mail with your request. Both are perfect to hand out at staff meetings or to clip to newsroom bulletin boards.