I, of all people, am a resolute proponent of communicating with policymakers through online channels.  In the advocacy, grassroots and political communications profession, we often urge our base to email, click-to-call, and even tweet at our Members of Congress.   But in the ladder of engagement, the ultimate in communications and activism is attending an event or meeting in person, and if possible, engaging a policymaker in a face-to-face conversation.  That is our pot of gold. 

So, I can’t help but wonder if recent events will change the advocacy landscape.  Will we see public events taper off?  Will we see Members moving their communications online?  Will the impromptu dialogue with a policymaker become more difficult, or even a thing of the past? And what if the person shares their intent to express an opposing viewpoint?

Here’s what I see so far:

Increased Security –
In this time of cutting government costs, it’s seems that Members of Congress receiving round-the-clock security details is not an option.  However, we will see increased security at Capitol and local public events.   Fox News reports that to help Members of Congress better prepare, the House Sergeant at Arms reissued a security guide for lawmakers and reminded Members and other federal policymakers that they can request additional security from the U.S. Capitol Police or the U.S. Marshal Service, and also try to reach out to local law enforcement for in-district support. 

Chilling Effect on Public Events –
This type of unexpected violence will no doubt create a stark chilling effect on public forum communications, such as town halls, community events, and other public appearances by policymakers.  The Washington Post shared a detailed story that discusses the concerns expressed by Members, Member’s families, their staff, and even constituents on their new risks and roles returning to the public.

    Freshman Rep. Rick Berg’s wife and mother called to ask about his safety. “This has been a real transition in our life,” he said. “I’d never considered this, and I don’t think they’d ever considered this, a life-threatening job.” 

    Berg’s biggest fear is that constituents will be too frightened to attend public events featuring members of Congress, saying that the killing of 9-year-old Christina Taylor Green in Tucson will give pause to anyone considering taking a child to a civic activity such as a town hall meeting.

Call for Civility and Understanding –
Many are embracing this tragedy as a call for moving our political dialogue and rhetoric in a more constructive, peaceful direction.  This is not just to honor the memory of the lives lost in the shooting, but to change the divisive course that our nation is on.  President Obama made a landmark speech urging for understanding and empathy.  Congressman Udall (D-CO) is even urging for his colleagues to abandon the traditional partisan seating at the upcoming State of the Union speech on September 25, 2011.  

I’m not sure how long the consequences of this tragedy will last, but plan to watch closely as our nation attempts to balance the demands of public office with the need for security.