Guide to Advocacy Lobby Days at the Massachusetts State House
One of the most effective ways to influence public policy decisions is by speaking directly with your elected officials.
Organizations like Mass Audubon will often host what is known as a “Lobby Day”, which brings grassroots advocates together to speak directly with their elected officials about a specific issue or legislation.
Who can attend a Lobby Day?
All residents can attend, including students, professionals, advocates, and community members. No prior lobbying experience is required!
Since many attendees are first-timers, organizers will often pair new participants with experienced advocates and provide scripts or talking points to help guide conversations.
Why should I participate in a Lobby Day?
Being a Lobby Day advocate is a way to make your voice heard and influence public policy. Lobby Days:
- Educate legislators on issues
- Demonstrate public support or concern
- Help constituents build relationships with their legislators
- Encourage accountability and responsiveness from officials
While a single Lobby Day might not change a law immediately, it contributes to broader advocacy efforts by raising awareness and building momentum for priority legislation.
Do I need to know a lot about the issue?
No! Most Lobby Days include an orientation and/or training session to help you feel confident in your conversations. You are not expected to be an expert on every issue. If a legislator asks a question and you do not know the answer, simply state that and let them know you will follow up with an answer. Then, let the event organizers know, and they will help you take the next steps.
Will I meet with my actual representative or senator?
Whenever possible, meetings will be scheduled with your State Representative and/or Senator. If they are unavailable, you may meet with their staff, who are important contacts and relay messages directly to the legislator.
What should I bring and wear to a Lobby Day?
Business casual or professional attire is recommended, as you’ll be meeting with elected officials and their staff. Comfortable shoes are also encouraged—there’s a lot of walking! In addition, you will want to have with you:
- Printed materials or handouts (usually provided by the organizers)
- A notebook or phone for taking notes
- Water, snacks, and sack lunch
What shouldn’t I bring to a Lobby Day?
State House entrances are equipped with metal detectors. Leave any weapons, illegal items, or live animals other than service animals behind.
How can I spread the word about Lobby Day?
Social media is a great way to get the word out and connect with legislators, other advocates, and environmental advocates.
During the event, take photos of you and other participants. Typically, advocates will get a photograph with their legislator or staff after their meeting.
Post your photos to social media and tag Mass Audubon and your legislator. If the event has a hashtag, use that as well!
Do I need to do anything after the event ends?
We recommend sending a thank you email to the legislators or staffers you met. Event organizers often give you a sample thank you email to use as a template. And, if you haven’t already, please sign-up as a Climate and Nature Champion to stay in the loop on all the ways you can be an advocate for nature and wildlife.
Where can I find information about visiting the State House?
You can find information about visiting the State House, including accessibility information on the State's website.
When is the next Lobby Day?
Protect Animals from Rodenticide Lobby Day will take place on Thursday, July 24, 2025, 10:00 am-3:30 pm. Join other wildlife advocates having face-to-face meetings with their legislators to share why they should pass An Act restricting the use of rodenticides in the environment (H965/S644), which would phase out use of this dangerous poison.