Testimony Guide
What to talk about when giving testimony on surveillance legislation.
- Read the full text of the bill
- Understand the committee you're addressing
- Know the deadline for testimony submission
- Prepare talking points in advance
- Practice your testimony to stay within time limits
Key Topics to Address
Discuss how surveillance impacts your right to privacy in public spaces.
- The chilling effect on free speech and assembly
- Loss of anonymity in public life
- Normalization of constant monitoring
- Impact on marginalized communities
Highlight the risks of collecting and storing surveillance data.
- Vulnerability to data breaches and hacking
- Lack of secure storage protocols
- Risk of unauthorized access by employees
- Potential for data to be sold or shared with third parties
Question the safeguards and oversight mechanisms in place.
- Who has access to the footage?
- How long is data retained?
- What are the rules for using facial recognition?
- Is there independent oversight of the program?
- What are the consequences for misuse?
Challenge the assumption that surveillance makes communities safer.
- Lack of evidence that cameras reduce crime
- Crime displacement rather than prevention
- Resources better spent on community programs
- False sense of security
Share how surveillance affects your community specifically.
- Impact on community trust in government
- Disproportionate effect on communities of color
- Effect on local businesses and foot traffic
- Alternative approaches to public safety
Chair [Name] and members of the [Committee Name],
My name is [Your Name] and I am a constituent from [Your City/Town]. I am [testifying today / submitting written testimony] in [opposition/support] of [Bill Number].
[Share your personal story or connection to this issue]
[State your main concerns - pick 2-3 key points]
[Specific ask - vote yes/no, amend, etc.]
Thank you for your time and consideration.