Pressure Play Workshop
GMCS's advocacy fundamentals and civic education program — equipping Georgians with the knowledge and skills to understand legislation, engage public officials, and advocate effectively for medical cannabis patients.
About This Program
Pressure Play is GMCS's core advocacy education workshop. It is designed for Georgians who want to make a difference for medical cannabis patients but are not sure where to start. Participants learn how Georgia's legislative process works, how to communicate effectively with elected officials, how to prepare public comments, and how to advocate in a nonpartisan, evidence-based manner. No prior advocacy experience is required.
What You Will Learn
How Georgia's Legislative Process Works
From bill introduction to committee hearings, floor votes, and the Governor's desk — understand the path a bill takes and where advocates can have the most impact.
How to Communicate With Your Elected Officials
Effective strategies for contacting your state representative and senator — by phone, email, and in person — and how to make your message heard.
Preparing and Delivering Public Comments
Step-by-step guidance on how to sign up to speak at a committee hearing or public meeting, structure your remarks, and deliver a compelling, time-limited statement.
Nonpartisan Advocacy Principles
How to advocate effectively across the political spectrum, build coalitions, and keep the focus on patients and evidence rather than party politics.
Reading and Understanding Legislation
How to find bills, read legislative text, track amendments, and understand what a bill actually does — in plain language.
Digital and Community Advocacy
Using social media, community organizing, and grassroots outreach to build awareness and support for medical cannabis patient rights in your community.
Who Should Attend
Pressure Play is open to any Georgian who cares about medical cannabis patient rights — whether you are a registered patient, a caregiver, a family member, a healthcare professional, a faith leader, or simply a concerned citizen. No prior advocacy or political experience is required. Sessions are free and nonpartisan.
Program Formats
In-Person Community Workshops
Free public workshops held at community centers, libraries, and civic venues across Georgia. Sessions are typically 2 hours with interactive exercises and Q&A.
Live Webinars
Online sessions open to all Georgians. Recorded for on-demand access through the GMCS Member Portal.
Organization & Coalition Trainings
GMCS delivers Pressure Play for patient advocacy groups, faith communities, civic organizations, and coalitions. Contact us to schedule a session for your group.
Legislative Session Intensives
During the Georgia General Assembly session (January–April), GMCS offers focused Pressure Play sessions timed to active legislative activity and committee hearings.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Graduates of Pressure Play who want to stay engaged can join the Pressure Squad — GMCS's organized network of trained advocates who mobilize around key legislative moments, public hearings, and community education opportunities.
Learn About Pressure SquadRelated Programs
Pressure Squad: Advocacy in Action
An organized network of trained GMCS advocates who mobilize around key legislative moments and community education opportunities.
Learn MoreCompassionate Candidate Georgia
A nonpartisan voter and candidate education initiative on medical cannabis access and patient rights.
Learn MoreCompassion in Action
GMCS flagship patient and caregiver education series covering the registry, patient rights, and safe use.
Learn MoreDisclaimer: Pressure Play is an educational program and does not constitute legal or political advice. GMCS is a nonpartisan nonprofit organization. Participation in GMCS advocacy programs does not imply endorsement of any political party, candidate, or elected official.
Ready to Advocate for Georgia Patients?
Find an upcoming Pressure Play Workshop near you, or contact GMCS to bring a session to your organization or community.