Provide Testimony

Effective testimony, both written and verbal, is a powerful tool for influencing decision-makers and advocating for nuclear energy. Written testimony provides a lasting record and allows for detailed arguments, while verbal testimony offers a chance to personally connect with and persuade legislators. 

Testimony Training Video

Giving Pro-Nuclear Testimony - Alyssa Hayes & Madison Schroder

Writing Effective Testimony

Written testimony is essentially a short, structured position paper. It should be concise and persuasive, clearly stating your claim and providing supporting evidence and reasoning.

The specific format may vary depending on the governing body, but generally includes:

• Introduction and statement of purpose

• Your main argument and key points

• Relevant facts, statistics, and examples to support your position

• A personal story or connection to the issue

• Clear "ask" or recommended action

• Closing and thank you

Why

• Influence Decision Makers 

  • Written testimony allows you to clearly state your position on a bill or issue to government officials, regulatory agencies, state legislatures, or commissions. It's an opportunity to advocate for nuclear energy in an impactful way.

• Create a Lasting Record 

  • Written testimony becomes part of the official public record. Your well-crafted argument in support of nuclear energy can be referred back to and cited even after the specific hearing or meeting.

• Supplement Verbal Testimony 

  • Submitting written testimony in addition to giving verbal remarks helps reinforce your key points. It allows you to expand on issues there may not be time to fully address while speaking.

How

• Determine the deadline and submission process. Don't miss your chance to be heard!

• Thoroughly research the issue, bill, and your audience. 

• Organize your key points into a logical outline.

• Write a strong opening that states your purpose and stance.

• Expand your outline, fleshing out each section. Keep it concise but thorough.

• If possible, incorporate an engaging personal anecdote that connects you to the issue.

• Clearly state the action you want the decision-makers to take.

• Conclude by restating your position and thanking the committee/commission.

• Proofread, check spelling and grammar, and ensure you're within the word limit.

• Submit via the proper channels (online portal, email, etc) before the deadline.

Remember, well-written testimony can be a powerful tool in shaping policy around nuclear energy. Take the time to craft a compelling, evidence-based argument that showcases your knowledge and passion

Giving Impactful Verbal Testimony

Most legislatures and regulatory agencies allow for the public to give verbal testimony in support or opposition to a bill or issue. Verbal testimony is your opportunity to speak directly to decision-makers about nuclear energy issues. Your remarks should distill your perspective down to a few crucial points that can be delivered concisely and powerfully in just a few minutes.

Effective verbal testimony will include:

• Introducing yourself and your connection to the issue

• A clear statement of your position

• 2-3 key arguments in support of your view

• Vivid facts, examples or comparisons to illustrate your points

• A short personal story to make your testimony memorable

• A specific call to action for the decision makers

• Gracious thanks and closing remarks

Why

• Publicly Advocate for Nuclear Energy 

  • Verbal testimony at a hearing allows you to be a strong voice for nuclear energy, publicly displaying your support and reasoning in a high-profile setting.

• Persuade and Energize Decision Makers 

  • Speaking with conviction as an expert, community member, or concerned citizen can sway opinions and inspire action in support of nuclear power.

• Counter Misinformation 

  • Verbal remarks are an opportunity to correct misconceptions about nuclear energy that may arise during a hearing, providing factual information to combat false claims.

How?

• Sign up or request a speaking slot well in advance of the hearing date.

• Outline your key points and structure your remarks for maximum impact.

• Craft a compelling opening and closing that drive home your message.

• Integrate a personal story to forge an emotional connection with listeners.

• Gather statistics or examples to support your arguments.

• Practice your testimony out loud to improve delivery and stay within time limits.

• Anticipate questions or counterarguments and prepare diplomatic responses.

• Dress professionally to project credibility and confidence.

• Be prepared to submit written testimony to complement your verbal remarks.

Remember, your passion and conviction can have a huge influence when shared through public testimony. Seize the opportunity to be a powerful advocate for nuclear energy!