Calling Congress

NETWORK’s Action Alerts will often ask you to call your members of Congress instead of emailing them. NETWORK also hosts call-in days in collaboration with our national partners in order to build a groundswell of support or opposition to a crucial piece of legislation.

Make sure you are signed up to receive call-in alerts via email or sign up to receive text alerts on your phone from NETWORK by texting “NUNS” to 877-877.

When you receive an Action Alert, here’s how to take action:

  1. Read over the talking points and directions that are provided in the Action Alert.
  2. Dial the number provided in the Action Alert. You will hear a message recorded by NETWORK staff that reviews the talking points and gives you a few pointers.
  3. You may be prompted to type in your zip code to be connected to your elected official’s office. After you’ve used our system once, it will remember your phone number so you won’t have to re-do the process. You may also be connected to the Capitol Switchboard. If that happens, don’t panic. Instead, ask the operator to connect you with the elected official you are trying to reach.
  4. Relay your message to the person who answers the phone. NETWORK will provide you with a sample script. If you’d like, you can read that or you can ask to speak to the staff person who handles the issue you are calling about.
  5. If NETWORK has asked you to call more than one member of Congress, redial the number and repeat the steps.
  6. If you have taken action from your cell phone, you will receive a text thanking you and reminding you to ask others to take action.

Tips to remember when you call:

  • Identify your name, your hometown and say that you’re a member of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice. If you have a title such as “Sister,” remember to use it, as it carries a lot of power.
  • Identify the bill or issue that you are calling about.
  • State your position and how you want your member of Congress to act.
  • Mention a brief personal reason for why you support or oppose the bill.
  • Express gratitude for your elected official’s work.