It’s safe to assume that many of you are not going to call your Senators regarding PIPA because you’re not sure who to call or what to say. Many of us have never contacted our representatives, and the task can seem intimidating (and no, emailing them is not as effective). It’s super easy, and I’m making it easier for you by sharing information I’ve compiled as a short, to-the-point message for you to use. It will take you TWO minutes for a bare bones phone call like this, but feel free to add any further comments or work your way to higher-ups as you see fit! Please call immediately; the potential for us to collectively generate a positive outcome regarding the Protect-IP Act only grows with your action! TAKE IT SERIOUSLY AND DO YOUR PART!

Find your state’s senator with corresponding telephone number here.

When you call, a staff member will answer. And all you need to say is this:

“Good afternoon, my name is (say full name) and I am calling from (your hometown) to express my opposition for S. 968, the PROTECT IP Act. May I speak with a staff member responsible for handling internet issues?”

Wait for response or transfer.

“I would like to share my concern regarding S.968, The PROTECT IP Act, Sponsored by Senator Patrick Leahy. As written, PIPA would import censorship and surveillance techniques pioneered by countries like China and Iran, reversing longstanding U.S. policy on Internet freedom, betraying U.S. First Amendment values, damaging our standing around the world, threatening our job-creating innovators, and undermining Internet security for everyone. Protect-IP is dangerous, ineffective, and short-sighted. It does not deserve floor consideration. Therefore, I urge senator (full name of your state’s senator) to vote ‘no’ on cloture for the PROTECT IP Act, on Jan. 24th, as I urge my representative to vote ‘no’ on SOPA, the corresponding House bill. 

Over coming days you’ll be hearing from the many businesses, advocacy organizations such as Google, Visa, American Express, Demand Progress, Yahoo Inc, American Association of Law Libraries, American Library Association, and Human Rights Watch, who oppose this legislation. You will also be hearing from ordinary Americans who also oppose this legislation because of the myriad ways in which it will stifle free speech and innovation.  We hope you’ll take our concerns to heart and oppose this legislation by voting ‘no’ on cloture.”

Thank the staff member you are speaking to, wish them a good day, pat yourself on the back, and reblog this post!