All the hard work we’ve done this year to increase our influence in an uncertain legislative, regulatory, and political environment has highlighted three key ingredients for success: Preparation, Partnership, and Participation. Throughout September, we are reminded of how these play out in our advocacy outreach efforts.
Preparation
As REALTORS®, we understand the importance for being prepared. Not only are we celebrating REALTOR® Safety Month, but we’ve partnered with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to raise awareness of National Preparedness Month. Disasters are never planned, but we can help our clients, our communities, and ourselves by raising awareness about disaster risks and the simple, proactive steps everyone can take to be better prepared. The resources offered from House Logic and Homeownership Matters can build a culture of preparedness and ready the nation for catastrophic disasters.
Partnerships
It’s also a busy time in Washington, D.C. This week nearly 10,000 people are in town attending the Congressional Black Caucus’ Annual Legislative Conference (ALC). This year’s ALC theme, “The Dream Still Demands,” focuses on the influence and legacy of civil and social movements over the last 50 years moments, while uplifting present-day champions in the fight for racial equality, justice, and freedom. The National Association of Real Estate Brokers hosted a special session, “A 50-Year Journey: The Fair Housing Act to the Current State of Housing in Black America.” In addition to sponsoring a reception, our Federal Political Coordinators, who are attending this five-day conference will have the opportunity to delve into important conversations with industry leaders from across the globe on housing, environmental, business-related topics.
Participation
We say this time and time again because it’s true: our political strength comes from you! When 1.3 million REALTORS® let elected officials know and understand our position on public policy issues, we are successful. We’ve seen this on tax reform, extending the National Flood Insurance Program, and many other issues at the state and local levels. With Election Day only 54 days away, we are asking REALTORS® to make a commitment to vote on November 6. Approximately 15% of membership, or 195,000 REALTORS®, are not registered to vote. National Voter Registration Day — September 25 — is an excellent opportunity to update their voter registration or register to vote.
We thank you for your commitment to the REALTOR® Party, and we look forward to seeing you in Boston!