Through our Philly Documenters program, we train and pay Philadelphia residents to attend and take notes at public meetings across the city. Our Documenters not only work to make government more transparent and accessible; they are also powerful community resources for local media, organizers, and civic leaders working toward solutions.
At many of these meetings, residents have the opportunity to give public comment. Public comment is a powerful way to engage with local government and the democratic process – and influence the decisions that impact your community.
Philly Documenters recently hosted a panel discussion featuring Philadelphians who have experience in giving public comment at public meetings. We heard from Mr. Calvin Williams, Ms. Judith Robinson, and Philly Documenter Jerrett Johnson. They spoke about the importance of giving public comment, what you can accomplish by doing it, and how to prepare and make the most of your time at the podium.
Here are some of the tips and best practices they shared!
Why You Should Give Public Comment: Amplify Your Voice in Democracy
Speak Up About Issues That Matter to Your Community
One of the most compelling reasons to give public comment is to address issues that directly affect your community. Whether it’s changes to local transportation, education policies, or neighborhood safety concerns, your voice can help shape the future of where you live. Public comment provides a platform to express concerns and advocate for solutions that matter directly to you and your neighbors.
Advocate for Those Who Can’t Attend Public Meetings
Life is busy, and not everyone has the ability to attend public meetings. Whether it’s due to work, family commitments, or accessibility needs, some people may not be able to make it. Giving public comment is a way to ensure that their concerns are heard.
As Philly Documenter Jerrett Johnson shared, many people are looking for a person in their community that knows what’s going on in local government and gives public comment at meetings. “I want to let my voice be heard for those who are either afraid to speak up or can’t speak up,” Johnson said. By giving public comment, you become a resource in your community and movement, representing voices that may otherwise go unheard.
Be an Active Participant in the Democratic Process
The act of giving public comment is more than just expressing your opinion—it’s an exercise in active citizenship. When you stand before local officials and speak directly to them, you are contributing to the democratic process by helping to shape policies that impact your daily life. Although it might not feel like your comments are being heard, community participation is vital to keeping the government accountable.
“I think it’s a citizen’s responsibility,” said Judith Robinson, a longtime Philadelphia resident and public commenter. Robinson emphasized that even when the process can feel intimidating, it’s important to represent your community and know that you are making a difference.
“Sometimes you don’t feel that way when you’re testifying in front of these folks,” Robinson notes, “but because I have the time and ability to decipher this information for the community, I am encouraged to go.”
Public comment can have a tangible impact on policy decisions. Take the example of Mr. Calvin Williams, a Philadelphia resident who attended meetings regarding changes to SEPTA’s 32 Bus Route. Due to the persistence of those who spoke out about how the changes would negatively impact the community, SEPTA ultimately decided not to alter the route. “With persistence, you can get results,” said Williams.
How to Prepare for Giving Public Comment
Research the Issue You Want to Address
Before you give public comment, research the issue thoroughly. Having accurate information will strengthen your comment and message. “Sometimes I can be a bit fiery,” Robinson said. “So I research to make sure I have the right information.” Preparing ahead of time helps ensure that your comments are well-informed, focused, and relevant to the topic at hand.
Drawing from your own lived experience can also help make your comment more impactful, said Williams. Speaking from the heart about issues that personally affect you or your loved ones adds authenticity to your message and makes it easier to connect with the audience.
Write Out Your Public Comment
To stay within the two-minute time limit for public comment, it’s a good idea to write out what you want to say beforehand. This allows you to organize your thoughts, stay on topic, and ensure that your message is concise.
Johnson shared his method of preparation: “A few days before the meeting, I write out what I want to say.” He advises never to “wing it” when giving public comment. He also emphasized the importance of staying relevant to the topics being discussed at the meeting. By writing and revising your comment ahead of time, you can ensure that it aligns with the subject matter being addressed.
Practice Your Public Comment
Public speaking can be intimidating, especially if you haven’t spoken to public officials. To ease your nerves and feel more confident, practice saying your public comment out loud with a friend or neighbor. Robinson uses the protocol that “once you repeat yourself, it’s time to close it down” – unless she is repeating herself for emphasis.
Day-of Preparation: Setting Yourself Up for Success
Take Care of Yourself Physically and Mentally
Public meetings can be long and mentally draining. To prepare for the day, make sure to hydrate and eat something nourishing before you arrive. Robinson has her own method for mentally preparing: “I pray for the right words to come out of my mouth… I make sure I’m hydrated, not too angry about a subject matter, and that I’m on point.” Mental preparation, whether through prayer, meditation, or simply taking a few deep breaths, can help you stay calm and centered.
Stay Within the Time Limit
Most public comment sessions have strict time limits, typically around two or three minutes. It’s crucial to keep your remarks concise and to the point. Practice beforehand to ensure you can make your comment within the allotted time.
Don’t be afraid to repeat key points for effect. If you feel strongly about a particular issue, reinforcing your message can drive home the importance of your concerns.
Final Thoughts
After giving public comment, you can continue making an impact by staying civically engaged. You can follow up on the issue by attending future meetings, writing emails to the relevant department, or making phone calls to government agencies.
Public comment is a powerful way to make your voice heard, advocate for change, and engage in the democratic process. Whether you’re speaking on behalf of yourself, your community, or those who cannot attend, your input can help shape policies that impact everyone. By preparing carefully, staying informed, and speaking from the heart, you can make the most of your time at the podium and inspire others to do the same.
“City Hall is a hall for the people. You can’t keep me away from these meetings if they’re public,” said Williams. He reinforced the importance of following up and being persistent when you give public comment. “If it’s personal, if it gnaws at you, if you don’t see something in the press – then you go to the City Council’s office. Make yourself known and find a way to be in the rooms to make things happen.”
- Sign up to be a Philly Documenter and check out reporting by Philly Docs here.
- Want to give public comment at an upcoming meeting? Check out City Council’s website for directions on how to sign up.
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