Page 54 - voice-international-oct2022

Nov
IFESel Endeavours

Digital Advocacy Toolkit Launched

s the COVID-19 pandemic has activities using an intersectional approach,with
disproportionately impacted marginalized particular attention to the unique experiences of
A communities such as young people, people who identify with multiple marginalized
persons with disabilities, LGBTQI+ persons, women, groups, such as young people with disabilities and
rural communities, ethnic and religious minorities, ethnic minority women. The toolkit can be used by
Indigenous People and others, digital advocacy CSOs, OPDs and self-advocates with stakeholders
has been a key tool in bridging the gap between such as election management bodies (EMBs),
advocates and decision-makers. political parties, candidates, elected officials and
On November 15, 2021, the International government ministries.
Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) launched The Inclusive Digital Advocacy Toolkit contains
the “Inclusive Digital Advocacy Toolkit,” a new several sections that guide users through the
resource to support Civil Society Organizations process of creating an inclusive digital advocacy
(CSOs), Organizations of Persons with Disabilities campaign and offers practical guidance for using
(OPDs) and diverse digital advocacy, with
advocates to use social a special emphasis on
media and technology If you want to connect with your government, let us accessibility and online
in advocacy activities. connect by showing them that we are here, we can help safety. The toolkit
The “Inclusive Digital you, we can offer something to you and we can be of provides practical tips
Advocacy Toolkit” help to our nation. for ensuring that digital
includes tips, detailed Jennifer V. Garcia, CALL Foundation, the Philippines advocacy content is
steps and specific accessible and inclusive,
examples of how such as good practices for
advocates can add digital writing alt-text for photos
advocacy to their existing and graphics and how to
and future advocacy initiatives. include alt-text on social media platforms.
The toolkit provides step-by-step instructions The toolkit also emphasizes the importance of
for designing and carrying out digital advocacy online safety for individuals and for organizations.

54 | VoICE International | October 2022