This is critical. Most politicians' staffs go through emails in a very haphazard way. The best way to get politicians and other influential people is to call their offices, or even better than that, by showing up. If you call their office, particularly the office in their home district (often in a city near where you live) the people there are much more likely to pass on the message without distortion. I can tell you that I have never once received a personal response from an email, but when I sent an actual letter in the mail and made a phone call, I did receive personal contact. If you're going to have an impact on public policy, whether it's getting the roads fixed in your neighborhood or getting our Senators to vote no on "free trade", you have to make your voice heard. And the phone works wonders.

If you don't have a home phone, or your parents won't let you make long distance calls, pick up a phone card at the nearest convenience store. Use your cellphone, if it doesn't charge for long distance. Use Toll-free numbers to call Washington, like 1(888)355-3588 and tell the operator your zip code. They'll connect you to your congressperson or your Senators, whichever you wish to speak to.

Also, the telephone is your best friend when trying to organize events, like protest marches and rallies. Call up friends, talk about the issues, direct folks to websites that talk about the issues, make the phone your most important tool in your quest for better government.