John Phillips, LOHV-NYC's executive director, recently spoke in Washington, D.C. on the importance of organizing politically for animals. Read excerpts from his speech after the jump!
Pictured above: John with Congressman Christopher Shays (R-CT), Co-Chair of the Congressional Friends of Animals Caucus.
Electing humane lawmakers doesn't require a master's in political science. All you need is some passion for the cause, some time and some energy.I'm here today only because I've come to understand a very simple rule. First and foremost on any politicians mind is election day. They want to be re-elected. They want to stay in power. Simple as that.
My understanding of this fact has enabled me to meet with and lobby state Senators, members of Congress, state Assembly members, Council Members, even the Governor of New York.
I'm on a first-name basis with dozens of very powerful lawmakers, many of whom I met as a teenager, which wasn't that long ago.
Why?
It's not because I'm a millionaire, I'm definitely not.
It's not because the League is a multi-million dollar organization which has lots of money to give away. It's not.
It's SIMPLY because I represent a voting bloc - an organization which can deliver or withhold votes on Election Day. And I understand what Julie calls the arithmitic of elections - that's all you need to know.
Whether I'm talking to the Governor or my local City Council Member, he or she knows that I am there as a representative of her constituents.
The lawmaker knows that whatever is said will be reported back to our members in his or her district.
...
The lawmaker is concerned that the League of Humane Voters of New York City, my organization, will effect your voting behavior - make you vote for or against her.
That's the essence of this work.
... It's true that power comes from organizing. It's also true that the powers that be are terrified of organization.