In Alberta, we have the knowledge and technology that we need to address climate change. What we are lacking is the leadership to make those changes happen. We are currently sitting at a crossroads. We can either continue to apply temporary fixes to local problems that do not address the global implications of climate change, or we can see this as our chance to take the lead in address­ing one of the most important challenges of our time. That leadership can start in our homes. There is a lot that we can each do to help, whether that means learning more about the issues, talking with people in our communities, changing our own energy use, or making sure our elected officials know how we feel.

We need to take climate change into account as we make our everyday decisions, but that means that every one of us needs to get up and tackle some very tough questions. We need to think about how our individual actions can either increase disruptions in the climate we rely upon, or contribute to long lasting solutions  that can create vibrant communities and increase economic opportunities.

20 ways to engage your representatives

1. Understand an (ecological, social, political) issue that interests and engages you. Don't feel that you need to know every detail about an issue before you express your opinion. Just learn enough to understand what our leaders can do about it, and then ACT!
2. Find out what is being done about that issue. Identify some potential solutions to that issue. Think of solutions that seem way "out there".
3. Find out who your representatives are (federal, provincial, municipal).
4. Write a letter to your representatives.
5. Phone your representatives.
6. Organize and distribute a petition. Send it to your representatives.
7. Meet with your representatives. You may have to determine what 'angle' or 'approach' would most interest, and best engage, your representatives. Explain why your issue is important to them.
8. Ask your friends and family to engage (write, phone, meet) their representatives.
9. Host/ organize / participate in events around the issue:
   
   • Stage a demonstration
   • Invite a public speaker
   • Screen a documentary
   • Convene a panel of experts
   • Host a public debate
10. Support a campaign working to solve or increase awareness about that issue. Your support may be in terms of time and/ or money.
11. Fundraise for an organization working on that issue.
12. Discuss the issue through social media (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, blogs etc).
13. Write the editor of your local newspaper.
14. Ask businesses what they are doing about the issue, and use your buying power (i.e. spend your money—or not) accordingly!
15. Start your own organization to address the issue.
16. Work with your faith institution, community association, student association or school group to create local solutions to the issue.
17. Raise awareness in public spaces (e.g. have an art show, demonstration, parade etc.)
18. Raise media awareness.
19. VOTE!!
20. Run in the next election.

The bottom line is that we need YOUR help to make lasting change happen in your community! Please visit our website often to learn more about climate change, what is happening in your area, and what YOU can do to help. Most importantly, send us your ideas and opinions at info@albertaacts.ca! We look forward to hearing from you!