Advocacy 101: Making Your Voice Heard
At MEOA, we believe every student deserves a fair chance to succeed in higher education, regardless of their income, background, or zip code. Advocacy is how we protect and expand opportunities for first-generation, income-eligible students and students with disabilities across Massachusetts.
When we speak up, policymakers listen. When we show up, change happens.
Advocacy means educating and informing decision-makers about the importance of educational equity. It’s sharing stories, data, and relationships that lead to policy change. Whether you’re a student, staff member, alum, or community partner—you can make a difference.
Ways to Advocate with MEOA
Contact Your Elected Officials
As a constituent, your voice matters. A call, email, or meeting helps protect programs like TRIO. Find Your Legislators → Pro tip: Share a story. Data matters—but real stories drive action.
Tell Your Story
Your story can change a policy. Share it through op-eds, social media, videos, or in meetings with legislators. Want to be featured? Email us at meoaboard@gmail.com.
Use Our Tools & Resources
Advocacy Checklist
Tip: Keep this page open while you complete these steps!
Advocacy in Action: COE & MEOA Partnership
MEOA proudly partners with the Council for Opportunity in Education (COE) to push for policies and funding that open doors to college for low-income and first-gen students nationwide.
Together we advocate for:
- Increased federal TRIO funding
- Stronger support for underrepresented students
- Expanded access to postsecondary education
Toolkit
Everything you need to prepare for meeting with your representative, including scripts, talking points, and how to schedule meetings.
Visit Resource PageMassachusetts TRIO Impact Brief
Quick facts on how many students are served by TRIO in MA, and how those programs are funded.
View BriefSample Legislative Email
Use this template to personalize your outreach to your State Senator or Representative.
Send Legislative EmailDid You Know?
You Don’t Have to Be an Expert—Just Be Passionate
Advocacy is for everyone. All you need is your story, your passion for equity, and the courage to speak up. We’ll show you how.
Frequently Asked Questions
Advocacy is speaking up to influence decisions. In our case, it means urging elected officials to support Educational Opportunity programs like TRIO and GEAR UP in Massachusetts.
MEOA works to raise awareness of college access and equity programs through events, direct outreach to legislators, and empowering students and alumni to tell their stories.
Advocacy Day is an annual opportunity to meet with lawmakers at the Massachusetts State House and share how programs like TRIO have changed your life or the lives of your students.