Mary Peterson invited two excellent examples of public policy leaders to speak at this workshop: Joycelyn Johnson, City Council of Winston-Salem and Past President of the League of Municipalities; and Molly Light, City Council of Winston-Salem. Ms. Johnson credited church and youth development as inspirations for her becoming involved in her community. She stressed being involved all along the way, not just when an issue is in your backyard. Stay in touch with council members: call or visit with them and voice your concerns. It is their job to listen.
Ms. Light began as an activist for neighborhoods in Winston-Salem. Eventually the neighborhood alliance supported her run for city council. She recommends getting on boards and commissions. Look in the newspaper or on city and county web sites for notices of openings.
Mary Peterson, a long-time public policy activist herself, moderated the workshop and inspired the attendees to get involved.