Programs

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The Constitutional Advocacy Academy

Constitutional Advocacy Academy

A joint initiative of the AMAC Foundation & Leadership Institute

A year-long advocacy training program built around twelve monthly classes. Each class stands on its own — register for the ones that interest you, or take all twelve and earn your Academy Diploma.

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2026 Class Schedule

Phase I — Foundations of Self-Governance
January 22, 2026

The Constitutional Foundation of Advocacy

Article I & the First Amendment

The constitutional authority behind citizen advocacy — how Article I empowers the legislative branch and why the right to petition government is essential to self-governance.

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February 19, 2026

How Laws Really Get Made

The Legislative Process in Practice

A real-world look at how legislation moves through Congress — committees, schedules, amendments, and the negotiations that shape final bills.

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March 19, 2026

Order, Motions, and Majority Rule

Robert’s Rules of Order for Effective Organizations

How parliamentary procedure strengthens credibility and discipline — the essentials of Robert’s Rules and structured decision-making.

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April 2026

Advocating Within the Law

Lobbying Compliance at the Federal and State Levels

The legal definition of lobbying, key compliance requirements, and the difference between advocacy and lobby activity — so you can advocate confidently and lawfully.

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Phase II — Applied Advocacy Skills
May 2026

The Power of Citizen Advocacy

Why Grassroots Engagement Shapes Policy

Why elected officials listen to constituents — the impact of personal stories, ongoing relationships, and organized grassroots engagement.

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June 2026

Communicating for Influence

Writing and Speaking Effectively to Elected Officials

How to craft clear, value-based messages and communicate effectively through calls, letters, emails, and in-person conversations.

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July 2026

Civility, Persuasion, and Bipartisan Influence

Winning Support Without Burning Bridges

Persuasion techniques grounded in civility and mutual respect — how to address objections constructively and work across party lines.

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August 2026

Do Your Homework

Researching Your Member of Congress Before the Meeting

How to research a legislator’s background, committee assignments, voting record, and priorities so you walk into every meeting prepared.

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September 2026

Inside the Congressional Meeting

How to Be an Effective Constituent Advocate

How to prepare for and conduct effective meetings with Members of Congress or staff — managing time, building relationships, and following up.

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Phase III — Civic Leadership & Influence
October 2026

Influencing Policy Close to Home

Effective Advocacy at the State Level

The structure of state legislatures and how to engage part-time and short-session legislators effectively at the state level.

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November 2026

Leading by Example

Civic Engagement in Your Community

How to model civic responsibility, get involved in local elections and campaigns, and encourage civic participation in your community.

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December 2026

Building Coalitions and Influence Networks

Strengthening the Movement Through Relationships

How to build networks within centers of influence, collaborate with like-minded organizations, and sustain long-term advocacy through relationships.

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