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Hi,
In the early 80's I appointed myself the Congressional
lobbyist for an environmental group. Uninvited I went door to door
in the office buildings of Representatives (obviously no one can
repeat that feat now). I was well received and although I only got an
occasional handshake from a Congressman, I did get time with legislative
aides. The aides were well informed and/or eager to become informed about
my issue. Recently I emailed my Congresswoman concerning an idea I had re:
reimbursement or tax rebates for citizens uparming and/or providing
additional protection for family member troops in Iraq. I since have
had two conversations with aides and now there is a bill for reimbursement
introduced (not sure it was my email and phone calls that initiated the bill but
until told otherwise I will pretend it was).
My point is that it would be meaningful to include
the willing of the legislative aides in systems discussions like those being had
here. Individually invite them to partake in your dialog,
arguments and debates about systems thinking, modeling, and simulations of
important current and longterm issues.
These young people are eager to make a difference.
They educate their employers and make them aware of innovative ideas,
methods, and issues. Of course what their employers do with it is
ultimately "political" but at least there becomes an awareness in the offices
where it counts. Who knows...perhaps some new funding will grow out of
their education.
Lou
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