You’re Already an Expert! A DPAC Perspective

The word “advocacy” may sound intimidating, but advocacy is simply telling your story and speaking your truth. Advocating for yourself, as a person living with diabetes, and advocating for others like yourself, is a powerful tool for change. 

If you’ve ever asked for a break at school or work to treat a high or low blood sugar, or canceled a plan because you weren’t feeling well, or sent back a regular soda when you know you ordered diet? You’re already an advocate! Having diabetes requires that we become advocates in our own daily lives, and the jump between everyday self-advocacy and policy advocacy is not as large as may seem.

So what’s the difference between self-advocacy and policy advocacy? It’s mainly the audience and the ‘ask.’ When you self-advocate, you tell your teacher, partner, parent, friends and coworkers about your diabetes needs. In policy advocacy, you have broadened your audience. And now, not only are you advocating for yourself but also the millions of other people living with diabetes who stand beside you. 

Margaret Mead said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world: indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”  Becoming an advocate for yourself or someone you care about is the most impactful way to ensure access to quality care, medications and devices and to educate and influence lawmakers toward meaningful action on issues facing folks with diabetes. 

Your story is the heart of diabetes advocacy.

You don’t have to be the policy expert! With your friends at DPAC, together you are change agents for diabetes policy. Legislators and policy makers need to hear what you have to say, especially your struggles.