Preparing Personal Testimony
1. Write down or record what really makes you happy or mad about this policy
Set aside 10 to 20 minutes to get your thoughts and feelings down on paper. When you start writing, don't stop, even if your grammar, spelling, and organization are terrible. At this point, you don't care if your testimony looks pretty - this exercise is for you. It's always better to first think about what you want to say, and then write it down. Some people, however, like to write down their ideas as they come. Choose whatever style works for you, as long as your final copy has well thought-out and clear ideas about what you want to say.
2. Reread and edit what you wrote
Take a break and come back in a little while. Now is when you should cross out bad spelling, poor sentence structures, and any angry or uncivil language. It's time to organize your thoughts. Practice reading out loud to get used to your voice delivering a speech, and get comfortable with the language you will be using.
Image description: person’s hands typing on a laptop
Image description: Neon sign with the word “Change”
3. Think about how this proposed policy change will help or hurt you and others
This is where you will make your point clear to decision-makers about the policy. Illustrate how their constituents will benefit or not from the change in policy. Think about specific examples, present a story of yourself or someone you know related to the policy's impact. Talk to people in the community that share your feelings and collect their stories.
4. Back up your emotional story with facts
Before you step up to speak your mind, you need more than just raw emotion. You need evidence or proof. Prepare a testimony that addresses the actual or potential effects of a policy, not just your feelings. For example, how will this decision, policy, or regulation impact local groups or community groups? How will citizens be helped or harmed by it? What will this policy mean to the generations of children who will follow you? Arm yourself with facts for any questions you may be asked. Visit the Friends of Outdoor School website for fact sheets, studies, and other resources explaining the benefits of Outdoor School. If you have any questions or need help, don’t hesitate to email Friends of Outdoor School staff.
5 . Write a conclusion
Sum up your testimony, hitting on the punch lines of your talk, that is, how this proposed regulation is good or bad. Find out how much time you will have available to speak, and trim your speech to that specific time frame. Personal testimonies normally last about two to three minutes, but there's much variation in this. If you go over, the moderator will cut you off.
