At Vote Pro Pot, we know that nothing changes without the involvement and participation of like-minded individuals. We often think of advocacy as something that politicians, think tanks, and lobbyists do, but the fact is, making and changing laws really is the job of We The People. (Yes, that includes you!) Each of us should understand the power we possess as citizens in a democratic republic―and use it. If we simply leave such things to the suits in Washington or the state capitals, we relinquish an essential part of being American. 

So, what can you do to advance cannabis legal reform? 

1. Register to vote. Everything you need to know to register in your state is available online. The U.S. Vote Foundation website and Rock the Vote are two great places to start. Remember: Until you register, you're not a voter―you're just a bystander. 
2. Get the lay of the land. Know whether your state laws allow for medical use and/or adult (recreational) use of cannabis. Use this marijuana laws map to see where your state stands. Once you know that, find out who your local elected officials are (you can look that up at usa.gov) and see where they stand on cannabis reform. 
3. Contact your local officials. Your senators, congressmen, mayor, governor, and state legislators need to hear from you. Write them, email, call them (use the U.S. Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121 to connect with your U.S. senator or congressman). You can even go meet with them, or one of their staff, and tell them how you want them to vote. This is how democracy works!
4. Attend committee hearings. These are open to the public, and for good reason. And these are where decisions are made and minds can change. A great place to keep tabs on these and other town halls, round-tables, etc is the Marijuana Policy Project.
5. Write an op-ed. A well written editorial letter can reach a lot of people and change minds. Start with a description of the problem as you see it, backed with statistical or anecdotal evidence, follow with a proposed solution, and end with a call to action. Here are some tips for writing an effective op-ed.
6. Vote pro pot! When you have the opportunity to cast a vote for a candidate or initiative where cannabis legal reform is at stake, for heaven's sake show up and vote! 

PLEASE NOTE:  Vote Pro Pot does not condone or encourage aggressive behavior, intimidation, vandalism, violence, or any other action, tactic, or strategy that involves violating the law or encroaching on anyone's constitutional rights. Ever. Period.

Resources

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Cannabis Legal Reform Advocacy