In my four years on the San Antonio City Council and five years as mayor, I interacted with many constituents with varying issues and interests. When I was a policy maker, it was most effective for me when citizens were positive and constructive and when they provided possible solutions instead of just telling me about problems. Paint the picture for your elected official of what your desired change would look like. Then build your numbers. The more folks rallying for your concern or cause, the better—you’ll weigh more heavily on the mind of your elected official. It’s true that the squeaky wheel gets the grease. Be persistent. It’s wonderful to be living in a time of a resurgence in citizen activism. Being engaged, voting, and taking your concerns directly to your elected officials really can make a difference.Julián Castro