TIPS FOR REACHING OUT
The most effective way to reach out to an elected official is:
By writing a personal letter (sent by postal mail is best) - written in your own style and from your own viewpoint (not from a template)
By respectfully requesting a specific action - such as by asking that worship services be treated fairly and the same as similar kinds of activity are treated by the order
By asking for a follow up (include your address and phone number in your letter) - such as a written reply, a phone call, or a meeting with you or a delegation from your faith community
Note: Let's be sure to respect MLA Rice's own privacy (such as by allowing her to shop in the community without being lobbied on this issue) - it's best to always start with a letter or email and then follow up with her office if you want to reach her in person
You can also gain awareness and support by:
Telling your story and concerns to friends and neighbours
Reaching out to the media by writing letters to the editor or contacting reporters directly
Organizing public awareness events as a faith community
Asking for other civil society groups to support our cause
HOW TO REACH MLA RICE
Website (with contact information)
Postal address: #290- 309 2nd Ave West, Prince Rupert, B.C., V8J 3T1
WHY GOVERNMENT ACTION IS NEEDED
Politicians often defer to their health appointees when the merits of the government's orders and restrictions during the pandemic are questioned. While we should pay attention to what health care experts recommend during the pandemic we must also balance the social costs of their recommendations through a democratic process. This is especially true when health experts offer conflicting advice. It is our right and duty to speak up when we think that any government policy is unfair or unjustified. We should always hold the government accountable through vigorous and respectful civic discourse.
At this stage in the pandemic it's not enough for government officials to simply point to their appointees and deflect responsibility for the government's own policies. Public health is an extension of government. Its extraordinary power should be held to account by elected officials and the law (and ultimately, by the electorate). Elected officials pass the laws that empower public health officials. Therefore, the buck stops with elected officials. Which is why it's right for citizens to ask for transparency and fairness when it comes to public health policies.