Review
“It is an immense challenge to shape and influence government policy from the outside. NGO’s have valuable contributions to make, however, with respect to issues of absolutely vital global importance, including human rights, the environment and international development. Amanda Sussman’s book offers thoughtful and very concrete advice as to how organizations can best ensure that their key concerns are heard by the right people at the right time, leading to the sorts of changes that are so absolutely necessary.”
— Alex Neve, Secretary General, Amnesty International Canada
“This book is a useful tool for anyone seeking to promote change through government action. Its author, Amanda Sussman, is particularly qualified to guide the citizen through the labyrinth of parliamentary procedures, governmental practices and the bureaucracy. She has had extensive experience on ‘both sides of the fence,’ having worked in senior positions with NGOs and government. . . . It could profitably be read by politicians and bureaucrats alike, for the light that it throws upon our system, both its strengths and its deficiencies.”
— Bill Graham, P.C., Q.C.
"Amanda Sussman, an activist and fervent advocate for human rights and social justice with extensive experience both within and outside government, is someone who has walked the talk. This is an inspiring and pragmatic guide for individuals and civil society organizations seeking to make a real difference in government."
- Lloyd Axworthy
Product Description
A political insider tells us how we can make a difference. A must-read for fans of
The Rebel Sell and Naomi Klein’s
No Logo.
What difference can one person make? If I’m not a famous actor, rock star, or multi-millionaire philanthropist, what do I really have to offer?
The notion that the government is open only to a few is a myth. In fact, our political system is incredibly accessible, but the misguided belief that people can only participate through elections is threatening our democracy. Democracy is not only for the well-funded, the entrenched, or the few.
If we are interested in seeing actual changes to policy, we need more reformers. Rather than rejecting government,
The Art of the Possible demonstrates how working through government can be the most direct route to social progress. Having an impact is possible. It is a matter of knowing how government works and making sure your point of view is presented how and when it counts.
During her time with the United Nations and Amnesty International, and as human rights adviser to two federal cabinet ministers, Amanda Sussman was offered a unique bird’s-eye view of government machinations. Through extensive interviews with insiders such as Joe Clark and Jack Layton and outsiders such as Alex Neve (Secretary General, Amnesty International Canada), Sussman offers the most comprehensive step-by-step advice on how and when to make the strongest possible argument for your cause.