I didn’t set out to be an advocate.
I was just a mom trying to get my son what he needed—a quiet place to regroup, a teacher who understood, a little more time to get from here to there. But what started as a conversation turned into a calling. Because every time I spoke up, I realized something: silence doesn’t change systems.
Voices do.
And here’s what I’ve learned over and over again: You don’t need a title, a degree, or the “right” zip code to make a difference. What you need is the courage to believe better is possible—and the willingness to begin.
What is Advocacy?
According to the Alliance for Justice, advocacy is defined as any action that speaks in favor of, recommends, argues for a cause, supports or defends, or pleads on behalf of others (Alliance for Justice, 2024).
That means when you speak up at a school meeting, when you share a resource with another parent, when you call your representative, or when you simply say, “This isn’t working”—you’re advocating.
When Systems Don’t See Us, Our Voices Must be Louder
Every policy, every program—or lack thereof—affects real families.
For those navigating disability, behavioral health, or educational barriers, advocacy often becomes the bridge between silence and support. It’s how we make the invisible visible. How we insist on access, inclusion, and dignity—not just for our loved ones, but for everyone whose voice hasn’t yet been heard.
The Qualities That Make an Advocate (No Degree Required)
So how do you begin if you’re not sure what to say, or where to start?
Start with what you already have. These five traits matter more than any credentials:
- Curiosity – Ask questions. Be willing to say, “Help me understand.”
- Research – Learn the laws, systems, and stories that shape your world.
- Belief – Believe that things can get better—even when it’s hard to see.
- Patience – Progress is often slow. But persistence is power.
- Collaboration – Link arms. Partner with others. Collective voices create lasting change.
Stories Heal. Stories Lead.
As a storyteller and publisher, I’ve seen the sacred ripple effect of sharing our lived experiences.
Stories carry weight. They soften walls. They bridge divides. They allow others a glimpse into a world they’ve never walked—and suddenly, the “other” isn’t so distant anymore.
When you share your story—your honest, unpolished, unfiltered reality—you do more than raise awareness. You awaken empathy. You remind others that what’s hidden matters. That what’s personal is often political. That change starts not in policy books, but in lived experience.
There have been times I hesitated to share.
What if no one understood?
What if it was too much?
But every time I did, someone whispered back, “I get it,” or “us too.”
You don’t have to spill every detail. You don’t have to be a public speaker or published writer. You just need to be real. Be brave. Be willing to let someone borrow your lens for a moment. Because when we tell our stories, we don’t just speak up—we call others in.
Start Small. Stay Brave.
You may be advocating already and not even realize it. Here are simple ways to start right where you are:
- Learn About Your Rights—Understand the laws that affect your life—like IDEA, ADA, Section 504, and more.
- Ask Questions at Appointments—You are the expert on your loved one. Your voice belongs in every room.
- Share Your Story—Whether in a letter, a social media post, a town hall, or across a coffee table—your story matters.
- Join or Build a Support Circle—Advocacy is easier when we’re not alone.
- Attend Local Meetings or Town Halls—Decision-makers need to hear from the people their decisions affect most.
- Write a Letter or Email to a Leader—Even a single letter can shift a perspective or spark a policy review. Need help? Try this: “Dear [Name], I’m writing as a parent of [Child’s Name] to express concern and ask for your support in…”
- Volunteer or Partner with an Organization—Lend your time or voice to a cause you care about.
- Teach Your Children About Their Rights—Advocacy is a family value. Equip the next generation to stand tall and speak up.
- Celebrate Small Wins—Keep a record of the moments that matter—each one is a step toward something better.
- Keep Going—You don’t have to change everything overnight. You just have to keep showing up.
You Are the One We’ve Been Waiting For
Advocacy doesn’t belong to “experts.” It belongs to the ones who love deeply, who hope relentlessly, and who refuse to stay silent when something must change.
If you’ve ever whispered, “Something’s not right,”
If you’ve ever asked, “Why is this so hard?”
If you’ve ever said, “There has to be a better way…”
You’re already an advocate.
So, take the next step. Tell the story. Ask the question. Write the letter.
And trust that someone’s breakthrough might be waiting on your brave yes.
Because the power of advocacy begins with you.
Marya Patrice Sherron is a dedicated advocate, a proud mother of two incredible children with disabilities, and a valued member of The Arc of Indiana’s Board of Directors.
Visit: A Time for Hope Blog
Visit Marya’s Website: A Time to Dance