Ongoing Outreach

Follow up

Make sure the final ordinance document is sent to all parties specified within it and that all the provisions of your petition are implemented, including reporting components, which require a mechanism to receive and disseminate the reported information. You can form a statewide coalition by networking with elected leaders and community members of other cities and towns in the state that have passed ordinances. As a coalition, visit all members of state's congressional delegation, and lobby them for what you want.

Try a new approach

If you were unable to get the ordinances passed in your community, get creative and brainstorm other approaches.

For example, NC Stop Torture Now crafted a bill, introduced in the North Carolina House of Representatives, that would authorize a commission to criminalize torture and rendition. If your community won't adopt torture remedies as strong as our model resolution, consider advocating for legislation like this.

Continue organizing efforts

Beyond any specific campaign, it's important to continue reaching out and supporting movements that appeal to your interests.

• Stay active within your community.
• Assist surrounding communities in their ordinance efforts.
• Continue to update BORDC about your work promoting civil liberties or the rule of law.

Help us make this web site a clearinghouse of information on Bill of Rights defense efforts nationwide. Contact us about efforts you are working on, others that you know about, or resources you’d like to share on our website.