Editor’s note: This article was originally posted on September 7, 2016. It has been updated.
Why write a proclamation?
Proclamations serve to signal to citizens that an issue matters. A proclamation can influence policy decisions is an official way for government leaders to make an announcement. Although there are a few steps involved, overall it’s a very easy thing to accomplish (particularly if your association drafts the proclamation for your leaders).
The 4-Step Process
1. Write: Outline what you would like the proclamation to say.
2. Contact: Contact your Mayor, Governor, Senator or other government official’s office to request the proclamation.
3. Sign: Meet with the official for the signing of the proclamation and a photo. If this isn’t possible, ask the official if they can provide a photo of the signing.
4. Promote Post the photo on your website and social media as well as distribute a press release.
How to Write a Proclamation
Title
Start with a basic title, which explains the proclamation.
Write Reasoning Statements
Identify the reasons behind your proclamation. Keep it straightforward and simple. Start each statement with “Whereas,” followed by the reason.
Write The Proclamation Statement
Explain what you are proclaiming, based on the above-listed reasons. Start the sentence with “Now, therefore” and be sure to include the author’s name, position, organization, location, and date. This statement should be written in the first person.
Add A Personal Invitation
Underneath the proclamation statement, personally invite readers to support and participate in your proclamation.
Sign And Date The Document
If your organization has an official seal, include it as well.
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Sample Proclamation:
Title
Anytown, USA [Grocery Industry] Support Proclamation
Reason 1
WHEREAS, the [grocery Industry] is integral to the availability of [food and nutrion], and
Reason 2
WHEREAS, the strength of the [grocery industry] is dependent on support from its [customers], and
Reason 3
WHEREAS, the [grocery industry] is partners with both [its vendors] and the [general population], and
Reason 4
WHEREAS, the [grocery ndustry] tirelessly provides for and supports their [communities and employees];
Proclamation Statement
THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that [Name of Organization, Institution or Official] urges of [Name of Community or County] to support the [grocery industry]; AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this [Title of Official] is committed to the continued support of [grocery industry].
Personal Invitation
I encourage all citizens to patronize the grocery industry and support their role in our communities and contributions to our economy.
Official Signature and Seal
IN WITNESS WHEREOF I hereunto set my hand and cause the Seal of Anytown to be herein affixed.
Source:
American Library Association