Attending Lobbying Conference Opened Student's Eyes to Civic Engagement

Olivia Declercq shares insights from accidentally attending an ACLU event in Alabama.

Feb. 4, 2026 at 8:55pm

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Olivia Declercq, a student, accidentally attended an ACLU community meeting in Montgomery, Alabama, and was surprised to learn about the legislative process and the role of lobbying. The experience opened her eyes to the importance of civic engagement, and she encourages other students to get involved with political interest groups and advocacy organizations to shape policies in their state.

Why it matters

This story highlights the disconnect between traditional education and the real-world practice of civic engagement, particularly when it comes to the legislative process and lobbying. By sharing her own experience, the author hopes to inspire more students to get involved and make their voices heard on the issues that matter to them.

The details

At the ACLU conference, Declercq learned about how bills are written, proposed, and moved through the legislative process in Alabama. She previously had misconceptions about lobbying, thinking it was just bribery, but came to understand that it involves much more, such as researching legislation, monitoring developments, and educating lawmakers and the public. The conference also covered ways for citizens, including students, to get involved, such as contacting legislators, attending public hearings, and joining advocacy organizations.

  • Last month, Declercq accidentally attended an ACLU community meeting in Montgomery, Alabama.

The players

Olivia Declercq

A student who accidentally attended an ACLU community meeting in Montgomery, Alabama and gained new insights into the legislative process and the role of lobbying.

American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU)

A non-profit organization that advocates for civil rights and liberties, and hosted the community meeting that Declercq attended.

Emma Erhart

A sophomore studying political science who also attended the "Werk the Lege" conference and had not previously been involved in lobbying or attending public hearings.

House Bill 14

A bill in Alabama that would allow citizens to put laws on the ballot by petition, giving the legislative approval process to the people.

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What they’re saying

“Lobbying involves much more than persuading legislators. Its principal elements include researching and analyzing legislation or regulatory proposals; monitoring and reporting on developments; attending congressional or regulatory hearings; working with coalitions interested in the same issues; and then educating not only government officials but also employees and corporate officers as to the implications of various changes.”

— North Carolina Professional Lobbyist Association

“I think that many people in our society, students or otherwise, are not as involved with public policy because they aren't aware. People aren't aware of what laws are in the process of being passed, or of what they can do to influence the process of lawmaking.”

— Emma Erhart, sophomore studying political science

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This story highlights the importance of civic engagement and student involvement in the legislative process. By learning about lobbying and advocacy, students can make their voices heard and shape the policies that impact their communities.