Talk of the Town (Hall)
A Guide for Showing Up Ready to Be Heard
Straight to the Point
Town halls aren’t just for “political people.” They’re for people—period.
The Audience
When we show up, we're doing more than filling seats. We’re sending a message: We’re here. We care. And we’re watching. Every person in the room matters—including you.
The Organizers and Speakers
Before stepping into a town hall, get the lay of the land. Some quick homework goes a long way. Consider these questions:
Who’s speaking? Is it your state rep, a U.S. Senator, or a local council member?
What are they saying online? Note: X is still a hub for Republicans.
What committees do they serve on in D.C. or Jefferson City?
What bills have they backed—or blocked?
Who else will be there? Allies? Opponents? Community leaders?
Pro Tip: Sign up for your legislator’s newsletter. It’s a window into how they’re framing the issues that matter most to you.
The Issues
Here are some tools and resources to stay in the loop—and in the conversation—on local and statewide issues.
The Missouri Independent—Clear, nonpartisan updates straight from Jefferson City
Substacks from fellow Missourians like The View from Rural Missouri (Jess Piper) and Missouri Monitor (Scott Randolph).
The EladPod—A podcast packed with smart, accessible political insight by Elad Gross, a civil rights, constitutional law, and government transparency attorney in Missouri.
Indivisible We Will Persist—A community calendar keeping actions organized so you can see how advocacy fits into your schedule.
Try a ChatGPT prompt like:
“Give me a summary of what’s happening in the Missouri legislature with the initiative petition process.”Indivisible Missouri, Missouri Democratic Party, The DNC, and local 50501 groups—subscribe to their newsletters and follow them on social media for real-time updates, events, and action alerts that matter to your community.
What tools and resources are you finding helpful these days? Share them in the comments.
Action Words
If you plan on speaking, make it personal. Share your story. Talk about what’s happening in your neighborhood, your kid’s school, your grocery bill. Show how decisions in D.C. or Jefferson City are hitting home. No need for political jargon, just frame it in plain, real-life terms people understand.
Instead of fully-funded public schools, say:
“Every student in Missouri deserves access to free, quality education no matter where they live.”Instead of energy assistance, say:
“No one in Missouri should have to choose between heat and groceries.”Instead of ballot initiatives, say:
“Missouri Republicans have repeatedly tried to rewrite the rules when voters deliver outcomes they don’t like.”
Want to wordsmith some more? Check out the messaging guides from ASO Communications.
Reframing builds connection. Connection sparks action.
Post It
Make your presence at a town hall count by amplifying it!
On Social Media
Tell your friends and family you’re attending and extend the invite.
Post photos, quotes, or reactions. Highlight the moment that hit you most. Use the event hashtag and tag organizers.
In Local Media
Submit a letter to the editor or op-ed about what you heard—and why it matters.
Comment on local news coverage to keep the conversation going.
With Reporters
Reporters at town halls often look for voices to quote. Be that voice. One strong, heartfelt line from you can spark action for someone else.
Take Heart
Whether you’re speaking up, asking a tough question, listening closely, or helping a neighbor make sense of what’s going on, you’re driving change.
Every person in the room matters—including you.
Send a Message
Turn these words into action by attending a town hall near you.
Get the Memo
You have the power to build the community you dream of, and together, we can make Missouri a beacon of progress and justice. Subscribe today, and take the first step toward turning your words into action.
I can't believe that is no May Day action listed for St. Louis, only for Kansas City. I will check with the STL Jobs with J Justice tomorrow but do you know of anything? Thanks
According to the RSVP link, the MO-2 People's town hall is at capacity.