Advocacy
Finish the sentence:
"It is ______ to ask for help."
"Okay"
You deserve to be heard and get help with what you need.
What does it mean to be assertive? Aggressive?
Standing up for yourself in a respectful, nonthreatening, nonviolent way. Communicating clearly without losing control of your emotions.
Aggressive: bossy, loud, pushy, always wanting to get your way.
Is this an example of self-advocacy?
"You do not understand your homework assignment so after class you email the teacher."
Yes
It is important to be respectful when communicating what you need
True
Name the Step:
"Knowing the issue, knowing what you need or want, being clear and specific about the issue and what you need."
Step 1: Identify and Clarify
What is the difference between "want" and "need?"
Need: Something that is necessary for you to be successful.
Restate this phrase:
"You're not helping me and you don't care."
Possible Examples:
"I don't understand the assignment, can you please explain it in a different way."
"I need help understanding..."
"I feel like I'm not being heard..."
Is this an example of self advocacy?
"You are at a fast food restaurant and they forget to add fries to your order. You walk up to the counter and start screaming at the employee."
No-Screaming and getting angry is NOT a way to communicate your needs.
Getting angry because you are not being helped is an example of self-advocacy?
False
Step 2: Reaching Out
"Name one person you can ask for help"
Teacher, Counselor, Principal, Parent, Trusted Adult, Police Officer, Manager,
Name one benefit of self-advocacy
Answers may vary:
Making your own decisions
Making friends
Getting what you need
Developing creative problem solving skills
What does it mean to compromise?
Answers will vary
Is this self-advocacy?
Demanding that you get a raise at work because you "show up" everyday.
No. You have a right to ask for a raise, but just because you demand something, doesn't mean a person has to give it to you.
"You either win or you learn, but you never lose?"
True
Name the Step:
Believing in yourself
Step 3: Courage
It's not always easy, but you deserve to be heard. Take one step at a time and be prepared.
What is the definition of Self-Advocacy?
Speaking up for what you need in a healthy, straightforward way and taking control of your life.
Give examples of "assertive communication."
Using "I" statements
Listening without interrupting
Having good eye contact
Have a relaxed body posture
Feeling in control
How would you handle this situation?
"You are asked to speak with the principal about your lack of engagement in your virtual classes."
Answers will vary.
You need to learn how to effectively problem solve in order to be a successful self-advocate.
True.
Choosing the right time and place for a conversation is an example of which step?
Step 4: Speaking Up
Be specific and respectful when communicating
Why is self advocacy important?
Decisions are being made about your life all of the time. You have a right to take control and make your own (healthy) decisions. It means getting the support you need.
Why is it important to know your rights when standing up for yourself?
Answers may vary
Name one way to advocate for yourself in the virtual classroom
Answers will vary
Self-awareness, knowledge of your rights, healthy communication, and leadership are characteristics of self advocacy.
True.
Describe Step 5: Respect
Check in with yourself about what happened and ask:
"What did I learn, What could I do next time? What other actions can I take?"