How do individuals and groups of people influence the political process?

How do individuals and groups of people influence the political process? The political process is an enormous and very broad subject. We all believe that we know and understand how the political processes work. Someone or group has an idea, the idea is made known, other people agree or disagree, the idea is voted upon, and perhaps that idea is made into a law. Although, these steps are part of the process, there is a lot more to effecting change. In recent years there have been several groups and activists trying to accomplish and effect change on subjects such as gay marriage and the recognition of Wicca as a religion in the United States military. Some states have voted upon gay marriage and did pass legislation so that gay or lesbian couples could get married within certain states. As of       , Wicca was recognized as a religion which enabled soldiers to practice their beliefs and to have the Wiccan symbol put on soldiers graves.

Have you ever wondered what exactly it takes to get your ideas or perhaps a group of people's ideas heard by your community, or perhaps your own government? Just recently, I really wanted to understand exactly how this is done. Have you ever signed a petition at a grocery store, or on an email, or perhaps someone came to your office.

The Marin Institute discusses how to organize a community, get involved, and how to take action. A few of the steps that are discussed within this article are:

"1. Assessing the community, figure out how many people care about the issue you are discussing. What does your issue affect. Who is involved? What people are needed to help resolve the problem or issue that is being addressed.
2. Create an action plan, what type of backing do you or your group need to help get your ideas heard and addressed.  Can you talk to corporations, business persons, elected officials, etc.
3. Develop an action plan-what ideas or resolutions need to happen to effect the change.
4. Mobilize to action, getting your voices heard, putting up signs, getting the law enforcement involved if necessary, write letters, talk to individuals, etc.
5. Implement- Put your plan of action to work.
6. Evaluate-Is your plan working, does it need to change. Do you need others involved? (http://www.marininstitute.org/print/action_packs/community_org.htm)"

These are just a few steps that I have found that individuals and groups need to follow to try to affect change in the political process. I am sure that there is much more that needs to be done. Things like petitions, getting others on  your side, having money and the time to commit, or perhaps getting the courts involved, perhaps even debates, or advertisements are necessary. The list is probably endless.