DEAF, Inc. is bringing a new service to you, Legislative Communication Support. Do you want to write a letter to your local and state representatives, but feel stuck or need help with the language? We can help you with this!

Video transcript and visual description provided below.

[Title: Legislative Communication Support]

[Visual Description: Devon Whitmore, Community Advocate at DEAF, Inc. – an African American male, dressed in a blue button-up shirt in front of a black background.]

[Devon]
Hello all! As you may be aware, in early 2021, a Missouri State Representative sponsored a House Bill that would allow Interpreters to work without certification. Many Missourians responded by writing letters to their local Representatives and the Speaker of the House. This effort helped halt the Bill from moving forward; however, the advocacy does not stop here. This situation was scary for many and it has brought to light how important it is to understand decisions that can affect or impact you personally and your community.

DEAF, Inc. is responding to this situation by offering an additional service to you. When there is a House Bill or a Senate Bill that is proposed that you support or oppose, and you want to write a letter to your representative, do you find yourself feeling stuck because you’re not sure what to write or how to write your letter? DEAF, Inc. can help you!

For assistance, please contact us at

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314-714-6400 or Link

[Devon]
to schedule a videophone or Zoom meeting. At this appointment, we can help you in two ways: One, we review your rough-draft letter and assist with revision, or two, we help you write your letter. Once the letter is finalized, we will send the final copy back to you to send to your representative. We will NOT send your letter to your representative for you.

The following information should be included in your letter will be shown in the next slide:

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• Date of your statement
• The county you live in
• Your local representative’s name
• The subject (example: HB 789)
• Indicate whether you support or oppose the bill
• State your reason(s) for supporting or opposing the bill
• Indicate whether you plan to share this with other entities such as another representative or committee

[Devon]
To get started, contact us to schedule your appointment. Our contact information will be available again at the end of this video and in the post description.

If you’re still unsure what to do, please call us and we will be happy to help you.

Thank you!

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Find my Legislator:
Link

DEAF, Inc.
25 E. Frisco Ave.
Webster Groves, MO 63119
314-714-6400
Link