Guest blog post by Kathy Amery, national Legislative Committee Western Division chair  2026-2027
 
The American Legion Auxiliary’s Legislative Program is one of the most meaningful ways we fulfill our mission — supporting veterans, military, and their families. Many members want to help but worry that “legislative work” means getting involved in politics or choosing sides. It doesn’t.


ALA legislative advocacy is nonpartisan, mission focused, and completely accessible to every member, no matter their personal views. Our goal is simple: Ensure lawmakers understand the needs of veterans and their families.
Here’s how ALA members can participate confidently and comfortably — without stepping into partisan politics:

1. Focus on policy — not parties or politicians
ALA advocacy is centered on veteran‑related policy, not political parties or candidates. Members support legislation that improves:

• VA healthcare access
• Mental health and suicide prevention
• Caregiver support
• Women veterans’ services
• Education and employment resources
• Benefits for military families

These are human needs, not political talking points.
 
2. Use official American Legion talking points
The American Legion provides clear, nonpartisan talking points for every Legislative Alert. Members don’t have to write their own arguments or debate policy details — simply use the provided language.
This keeps communication:

• Respectful
• Consistent
• Mission‑aligned
• Nonpartisan
• Click here for the priorities 

3. Contact lawmakers as a constituent, not a campaigner
When ALA members reach out to lawmakers, they do so as:

• Volunteers
• Caregivers
• Family members of veterans
• Community advocates

Not as political supporters.

A simple message like: “I’m an American Legion Auxiliary member asking you to support legislation that helps veterans access mental health care” is powerful, non‑partisan, and completely appropriate.
For detailed letters that you can edit and send to legislators, visit www.ALAforVeterans.org/Member/Committees/Legislative. 

4. Participate in grassroots advocacy
Grassroots advocacy is the easiest way to stay informed without getting pulled into politics. Check out the Grassroots Action Center here. 

Members receive:

• Short, clear Legislative Alerts
• Issue summaries
• Who to contact
• Sample messages
• Instructions for taking action

Most actions take under five minutes and require no political engagement.

5. Stay mission focused
ALA members advocate because:

• Veterans deserve strong support
• Military families need resources
• Communities benefit when servicemembers thrive

When we stay rooted in our mission, advocacy remains positive, respectful, and non‑political.

6. Remember: Advocacy is service
Just like volunteering at a VA, sewing quilts, or supporting a military family, legislative advocacy is another form of service.
It ensures the programs we care about continue to exist — and that veterans receive the care, dignity, and respect they earned.