Take ACTION
“The ‘hope is not a strategy’ mindset results in inaction and paralysis, while a strategy of hope inspires creativity and bold action,”
-U.S. Air Force Col. Jeremy Weber
Published in a recent essay for War Room, an online journal published by the U.S. Army War College.
Safe Skies Utah
Why Hope Alone Is Not the Answer
Inadequate Influence
Hope often entails a general desire for positive outcomes without clear goals or actionable steps. It may lack a concrete plan to address specific issues or challenges, making it difficult to achieve meaningful change.
Accountability and Monitoring
Merely hoping for change does not exert enough influence to shape the thinking and actions of public and political leaders. It requires active engagement and strategic efforts to effectively communicate concerns and push for specific policy changes or actions.
To Create Change in Public and Political Leaders’ Thinking and Actions, the Following Elements Are Essential:
Awareness and Education
Create awareness about the issue by providing well-researched information, data, and evidence to highlight its significance. Education helps leaders understand the problem's scope, impact, and potential solutions.
Building Coalitions and Alliances
Collaborate with like-minded individuals, organizations, and communities to form coalitions or alliances. Collective voices and unified efforts have a more substantial impact on decision-makers. By working together, you can amplify your message and leverage shared resources and expertise.
Policy Proposals and Alternatives
Develop well-thought-out policy proposals and alternatives that address the issue at hand. Offer concrete solutions backed by research, expert opinions, and successful models from other regions or countries. Present these proposals to leaders as viable options for consideration.
Accountability and Monitoring
Hold public and political leaders accountable for their promises and actions. Monitor their progress, advocate for transparency, and demand regular updates on the issue. By holding leaders accountable, you can ensure that change is not only discussed but also implemented.
Constructive Advocacy
Utilize different advocacy methods, such as writing letters, emails, or petitions, attending public hearings, or organizing peaceful protests or demonstrations. Constructive advocacy involves presenting well-reasoned arguments, offering viable solutions, and engaging in respectful communication to influence public and political leaders' thinking.
Engaging in Dialogue
Actively engage in meaningful conversations with public and political leaders. Share personal stories, perspectives, and experiences that illustrate the importance and urgency of the issue. Encourage open discussions to foster empathy, understanding, and a shared sense of responsibility.
In Summary
While hope can be a driving force, it must be coupled with consistent active involvement in strategic planning, education, dialogue, advocacy, and accountability to effectively create change in public and political leaders' thinking and actions to find a collaborative agreement to address the F35 adverse impact on the communities surrounding HAFB. By using these strategies, we can hold hope that positive change can occur!