Editing Public Speaking (Summer 2019)/Advocacy Topic (section)

== Advice on advocacy topic selection ==

The key thing is: does your topic allow you to talk about a policy problem, policy solutions, and doable calls to action? Those topics are specific.

Avoid broad topics and general social ills. I once had someone who wanted to do an advocacy speech on “being nicer.” This was too vague. I get the sentiment, but you want a topic that you can sink your teeth into and develop some hard arguments around. Topics like “be mindful” or “walk more” are generally too broad for this assignment. You are looking for broad issues that can be understood in a problem/solution/action format. 

Here are some general types of topics that work well. 

=== Option 1. Advocate for a change in policy ===
These can be calling for specific changes to how government works. In the US, reforming the electoral college is typically a good topic. There are good arguments for and against this. Raising the minimum wage is a broad topic that can be understood quickly.  

=== Option 2. Raise awareness about a problem/Advocate for an organization ===
Maybe you want to raise awareness for an organization or an issue.  You might argue for increasing funding or support for a specific non-profit group working to end a larger ill. I have had students argue, quite compellingly, for increased support for agencies working to end sex trafficking. I recently saw a good persuasive speech raising awareness about the decline in music education for young children.

You can think of yourself basically making the organization’s case for them.