251466 Advocacy efforts to influence federal policymakers

Wednesday, November 2, 2011: 10:55 AM

Margo G. Wootan, DSc , Center for Science in the Public Interest, Washington, DC
     
Throughout 2010, a coalition of nutrition advocates and a newly established campaign called the Child Nutrition Initiative (CNI) worked together to educate policymakers and enact smart policy changes that will improve the health of kids across the country. The unique partnership of funders (coordinated through CNI) combined with the a coalition of leading advocates created a formidable and united front that convinced policymakers to improve child nutrition.

This presentation will discuss lessons learned from mobilizing a coalition of advocates to successfully pass legislation. Key tips for managing a coalition effort, working with the Administration, educating legislative staff, and working with the media will be identified. Next steps for the Child Nutrition Reauthorization for local, state and national advocates will be discussed.

Learning Areas:
Advocacy for health and health education
Public health or related public policy

Learning Objectives:
Discuss lessons learned from mobilizing a coalition to impact policy. Identify key tips for managing the coalition efforts and working with key players within the administration, in Congress, foundations, and public health and industry groups.

Keywords: Nutrition, Policy/Policy Development

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am qualified to be a session panelist on the content I am responsible for because I am an expert in child obesity prevention and school nutrition. Currently I serve as the director of nutrition policy at the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), one of the country’s leading health advocacy organizations that specializes in food, nutrition, and obesity prevention. I co-founded and coordinate the activities of the National Alliance for Nutrition and Activity (NANA); and I am member of the Steering Committee for the National Fruit and Vegetable Alliance. I’ve also coordinated and lead efforts to: require trans fat labeling; improve school foods; reduce junk-food marketing aimed at children; require calorie labeling at fast-food and other chain restaurants; expand the nutrition and physical activity program at CDC. Educational Background: BS in nutrition from Cornell University; Doctorate in nutrition from Harvard University’s School of Public Health.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.

See more of: School Meals Matter: How Foundations and Advocates can Join Forces for Policy Change
See more of: Food and Nutrition