The Power to Make a Difference Lies Within You

Imagine this: you’re sitting in a school board meeting, hearing decisions being made that directly impact your child’s education, yet the voices of parents and youth like yours are absent. It’s a scenario many families in Contra Costa County know all too well. But what if that could change?

What if you could be the voice that shapes those decisions?

At FIERCE Advocates, we believe advocacy is a superpower anyone can cultivate. For Black and Latinx families navigating systemic barriers, advocacy becomes a tool for justice—a way to ensure our children and communities receive the resources and respect they deserve.

Advocacy is not about having all the answers or being an expert. It’s about showing up, sharing your story, and believing in your ability to lead change. And the best part? You’re not alone in this journey.

Starting Your Advocacy Journey

Find Your “Why”

Every great advocate begins with a purpose. Maybe you’ve noticed a lack of representation in your child’s school curriculum. Perhaps you’ve seen gaps in mental health resources for youth in your community. Whatever it is, your “why” is your north star—it guides everything you do.

Take a moment to reflect: What inspires you to create change? Maybe it’s a personal experience or a vision for a better future for your kids. Share this story with others—it’s the heart of your advocacy.

Building Confidence Through Knowledge

One of the biggest hurdles to advocacy is feeling like you don’t know enough. But here’s the truth: you don’t need to have all the answers; you just need to be willing to learn.

Start small. Attend a community workshop or school board meeting. Ask questions about local policies. Reach out to organizations like FIERCE Advocates, where you’ll find resources to help you understand the systems you’re working to improve.

Pro Tip:

Did you know that local schools often host open forums where parents can voice their concerns?

It’s an easy way to get involved and start making an impact.

Your Voice Matters: Communicating with Purpose

Advocacy is about amplifying your voice—and the voices of others in your community. But to make an impact, it’s important to communicate with clarity and purpose.

Start with storytelling. Share how an issue impacts your family personally.
Practice a short explanation of your goal—something you can share with a school official, neighbor, or even a friend.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Partnering with other families or community leaders can strengthen your message.

Ask Yourself: If you had two minutes to explain your advocacy goal, what would you say?

The Power of Community: We’re Stronger Together

Advocacy is never a solo effort. Real change happens when we come together.

In Contra Costa County, we’ve seen parents join forces to push for culturally inclusive curricula, advocate for better mental health resources, and create leadership opportunities for youth. These collaborations remind us of an essential truth: when we unite around a shared goal, we can overcome even the biggest challenges.

Take Action: Start Small, Dream Big

You don’t need to run for office (though you could!) to be an advocate. Advocacy begins with small, meaningful steps.

Parents: Attend a school meeting or connect with a local coalition like the Bay Area Coalition for Education Justice (BASEJ).
Youth: Join leadership programs at your school or partner with peers to raise awareness about an issue you care about.
Families: Make advocacy a family affair. Discuss local issues at the dinner table and brainstorm ways to make an impact together.

What’s one small step you can take this week to advocate for change in your community?

A Call to Lead Change Together

Change doesn’t happen overnight, but it starts when someone steps up and says, “This matters.” It starts with you.

At FIERCE Advocates, we’re here to walk this path with you. Through our advocacy programs, workshops, and community coalitions, we’re equipping parents and youth to become the leaders their communities need.

Ready to take the first step? Explore our Policy Advocacy Organizing (PAO) Programs and join a growing movement of families transforming Contra Costa County and beyond.

Let’s lead change—together.

How to Lead Change: Building Advocacy Skills for Parents and Youth