What Can I Do To Make a Difference? Learn more Because the science is ever changing, it is important to stay informed about current issues and facts surrounding stem cell research. Both the National Academy of Sciences and the National Institutes of Health are factual, non-partisan resources for information and news. If you, a family member, or friend is affected by a disease or disorder for which embryonic stem cell research provides hope, you may want to join a related national or local organization. Not only do they provide more information about stem cell research as it relates to a particular medical condition, they also offer channels and tools for advocacy and action. Talk to others in your community A great way to make a difference in the area of stem cell research is to talk about it. Armed with facts, knowledge of some research advances, and your own personal story, you may want to offer to speak in front of a community group or your church, or even talk about it with neighbors, friends, and family members. It's important to tell your story so that others can see and hear real people with real stories. This is a great way to help others understand what stem cell research is about, and why it's important to you. Listen to others in your community Listening to other's views is just as important as talking. People in your community or circle of friends may have questions about stem cell research, or may have some misguided notions about what the research really does. Sadly, some groups even spread wrong information on purpose to sway public opinion. You can help by listening to others' concerns, understand where they're coming from, and by offering a positive attitude to encourage an open, respectful dialogue. If people seem open to learning more, share some of your resources with them for additional reading and learning. Find out what, if any, legislation is pending in your state Because President Bush twice vetoed federal funding for embryonic stem cell research, many states are pursuing research using state or private funds. Be aware of what's going on in your state — not just in the area of funding, but also be aware of political efforts through legislation, ballot initiative, or administrative policy that may ban certain forms of stem cell research that are approved for use nationwide. Let your voice be heard Now more than ever is a time to take action. Find out where your elected officials stand on embryonic stem cell research and make sure they know how you feel. If you support their position, tell them so. If you disagree with their position, tell them so. Each one of us has a powerful story to tell about the importance of stem cell research, and nearly unlimited opportunity to tell those stories. You could write a letter to the editor or author an op-ed for your local newspaper. You could offer to give a speech at a community meeting, or set up a town hall meeting and invite a local expert to speak. You could also share your views about stem cell research in the state or federal legislative arenas by sending letters or emails to your elected officials. Or, you could plan a trip to your state capital or Washington, DC to set up a meeting with their staff to make sure they hear your voice. You can sign up for CAMR's alerts and ideas about other important ways to help change current law at www.camradvocacy.org. You could make a short video and post it online. You could start a blog. You could start an email newsletter. Whatever you decide, know that you have the power to create real change and fight for full and fair funding of all forms of stem cell research.