There are often opportunities to connect with your Member of Parliament (MP) in your community. Public events can be a good way to introduce yourself, raise an issue you care about, and begin building a relationship with your MP’s office.
You do not need to have a long conversation to make an impact. A brief, respectful exchange can help your MP see that people in their riding care about ending extreme poverty and Canada’s role in the world.
Read more on why engaging with your MP is important.
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There are many ways to find out if your MP is hosting a public event:
When you contact the office, introduce yourself as a constituent. You can simply say:
“Hello, my name is [your name], and I live in [community or postal code]. I am wondering if [MP name] has any upcoming public events or office hours where constituents can speak with them.”
Before you go, take a few minutes to prepare. This can help you feel more confident if you have a chance to speak with your MP.
This will help you know what issue to raise and what action to ask for.
Say your name, where you live, and that you are a constituent.
You may only have a minute or two, so keep your message focused and follow the EPIC model to take full advantage of your limited time.
Decide what you want your MP to do, such as learn more, meet with you about an issue, or complete an action outlined in our monthly call to action.
If Results Canada has a short resource or campaign page, you can offer to send it to the MP’s office after the event.
At the event, look for a natural moment to introduce yourself. You do not need to interrupt a speech or push into a private conversation. Wait for a greeting line, a question period, or a moment when your MP is speaking with constituents.
Start with a simple introduction:
“Hello, my name is [your name], and I live in your riding. I volunteer with Results Canada, a grassroots advocacy organization focused on ending extreme poverty.”
Then share your message in a few sentences. You can introduce them to Results Canada, and use the EPIC model to keep it clear and focused.
For example:
“Canada has an important role to play in improving global health and reducing extreme poverty. I am concerned about [issue], and I would like to see Canada continue to support proven solutions. I hope you will consider [specific ask from the current call to action].”
A few tips can help the conversation go well:
It is normal to feel nervous, especially if this is your first time speaking with an MP. You do not need to be perfect or know everything. Your role is to show that a constituent cares about the issue and wants Canada to take action.
You can keep it simple:
“Thank you for being here today. I am one of your constituents, and I care about Canada’s role in ending extreme poverty. I volunteer with Results Canada, and I would like to send your office more information about our current campaign.”
That is enough to start the conversation.
After the event, follow up while the conversation is still fresh.
Every conversation helps. Even a short exchange at a community event can open the door to a stronger relationship with your MP.
