Crunch Time: Congress Needs to Hear From Us

Over the next few months, Congress will decide whether or not to tax our health care benefits and if a public plan option will be a part of ahealth care reform.

Congress will vote on the Employee Free Choice Act and other measures to restore workers' rights and rebuild the middle class.

What happens in Congress matters to all of us and will affect us and our families for years to come. Make your voice heard — now!

1. Write a letter. Letters are a very effective way to register your views with your congressional representative and senators. Short, personal letters are best, and always remember to be specific about the action you want your representatives to take. Make sure to include your full address so that they know you live in their district.
   
   
2. Make a Phone Call. By calling the U.S. Capitol switchboard at 1-202-224-3121, you can ask to be connected to any congressional office. Once you are connected, ask to speak to the staff member who handles workers' issues, or health care, or whatever the specific issue is that you want to address. Don't be afraid to make this call.
   
   
3. Meet with your Member of Congress. There are many opportunities, including town hall meetings, scheduled visits to your senators' and representatives' Washington, D.C., and district offices, and being part of a labor delegation. Again, it's important to be specific about the issues and what action you want your lawmakers to take.

Resource: For information about your senators and representative, go to www.senate.gov and www.house.gov. There you can find district office and Washington, D.C. contact information.