Importance of Advocacy

While MCUL & Affiliates delivers the credit union message in Lansing and Washington, D.C., the grassroots efforts of credit unions in the community are just as necessary. Educating lawmakers about the credit union difference and how the movement is helping their constituents is a critical part of our strategy of removing barriers. Credit union leaders should take every opportunity to reach out to legislators and actively advocate on behalf of the movement.

What can you do?

It is important to be current on events in Lansing. Credit unions can learn more about what is taking place at the Capitol by reading our advocacy roundup and the MILeague Minute. Furthermore, participating in Chapter events to extend your network and reach. Read on to discover how to make an impact at both the state and federal levels of advocacy.

State:

Only you can share personal stories about how your credit union has helped members and constituents. The following events are ideal places to share the credit union difference with lawmakers:

• MCUL’s Government Affairs Conference
• Invite local public officials for a tour of your headquarters
• Legislative breakfasts
• In-district office hours

Federal:

It is in everyone’s best interest to stay on top of the federal issues that influence our industry. Credit union representatives can attend events such as Hike the Hill in Washington, D.C. to bolster the following outreach efforts:

• Support the reduction of regulatory burden
• Educate lawmakers about data breach liability
• Underscore the importance of not-for-profit tax status

By working together to shape our legislative landscape, we can strengthen our industry for our members and ourselves. We need your help in taking the next step.

Check out our state issues and federal issues pages to find out more about what we’re focusing our advocacy efforts on. For more information on how you can make a difference, reach out to Kieran Marion, SVP of Advocacy or Haleigh Krombeen, Director of State Advocacy.