Deep Canvassing
The Program
Our Approach
Deep Canvassing aims to reduce abortion stigma and shift opinions among those who may have uncertain views around abortion or have not been civically engaged previously. Lift Louisiana’s deep canvassing targets specific regions in the state with values-based messaging about abortion.
Deep canvassing is an evidence-based organizing approach for moving opinion, reducing stigma, and connecting residents to resources. It was pioneered in 2012 by the Los Angeles LGBT Center to understand voters opposed to same sex-marriage. While deep canvassing is a newer tactic, the data is showing promising impacts.
Lift Louisiana launched our deep canvassing program in October 2024 by knocking on doors in Slidell, Louisiana. These values-based conversations are aimed around two-way communication with open-ended questions and listening. They emphasize personal stories and experiences. Our goal is to build empathy, shift opinions, and make reproductive healthcare more accessible in Louisiana. In fall of 2025, we expanded our canvassing efforts to Jefferson Parish, and have also conducted deep canvassing conversations through phone banking.