This workshop explains what testimony is, why it matters, and how to write it in a clear, effective format. We cover the key elements: your name and role, the bill number and title, your position (support/oppose/amend), a personal story showing impact, a few key points in plain language, and a clear call to action.
Participants learn what to avoid, how to find bills and gather information using the Maryland General Assembly site, and how to submit testimony through MyMGA.
We also discuss using AI and other tools ethically to support writing, and how to build ongoing advocacy relationships with lawmakers. Includes Q&A and feedback time.
- What testimony is and why it matters
- Simple testimony structure (bill info + position + story + key points + ask)
- Writing in plain language for impact
- Finding bills and hearing info (Maryland General Assembly / MyMGA)
- Submitting testimony step-by-step
- Timing, follow-up, and relationship-building with lawmakers
- Using tools (including AI) ethically to support writing
- Practice + feedback/Q&A
- Autistics and people with disabilities new to advocacy
- Self-advocacy groups
- Families and allies supporting advocacy
- Community organizations engaging lawmakers
- People who want a simple, repeatable testimony template
- Anyone who wants step-by-step support using MyMGA (Maryland) and similar systems
- Format: Training / Workshop
- Length: 45-60 minutes
- Delivery: Virtual or in-person (as available)
- Autistics
- people with disabilities
- advocates
- community groups
- self-advocacy orgs
All AOG presentations are offered free of charge. Organizations that can afford it are encouraged to make a donation to support our community-led work. To schedule, contact: info@autismonthego.org
