Guest blog post by National Legislative Committee Chair April Sinclair 
 
What an exhilarating Washington Conference.

Upon arriving in Washington, D.C., the adrenaline of excitement was racing being a first-timer to the Washington Conference — emotions were all over the place. What I was expecting, what I was anticipating, as well as what I was hoping to gain from the conference were the questions. 

Every meeting I attended and every interaction with American Legion members and legislative staff I encountered far exceeded expectations for the conference.

Upon asking others what they expected from the conference or what they had hoped to gain, the following was the response: One dual Legion and Sons of The American Legion member told me this was his first Washington Conference. After attending the SAL wreath laying ceremonies and attending meetings and visiting Capitol Hill, they now have a new perspective on the mission, as well as how their voice truly does matter. 

Upon receiving lots of information surrounding the point papers and legislative priorities, Julie Smith, National Executive Committee member from the Department of North Carolina shared, “I didn’t realize the extent of discrepancies between women’s health care and that of their male counterparts.” She now has a better understanding of how the VA system works and the role of community care after attending the conference.

The Legislative Commission meeting was very resourceful focusing on the Legion’s legislative agenda for the 119^th Congress, Second Session. It was great to hear firsthand from The American Legion Legislative Commission how important grassroots advocacy is, paying special attention to the Maj. Richard Star Act. During the meeting, it was expressed that as we embark on our meetings with our senators and members of Congress on the Hill, that we remember to remain nonpartisan; however, be passionate when we are presenting the priorities. We were encouraged to share stories which may relate to an item on the agenda, and in doing so, will make the delivery personable, catching the ear of our elected representatives.

During the commission meeting, the shocking number of over 8,800 grassroots actions from Kansas was noted as being received, placing Department of Kansas as the leader in action alerts. Actually, it was not surprising with National Commander Dan K. Wiley being from Kansas. Nonetheless, it was shocking to hear the number. 

Other events which were truly humbling experiences included participating in the SAL wreath laying ceremonies at several memorials across D.C. The opportunity to tag along for a couple of these events was chilling, but I am grateful for the experience shared with the Legion Family.

The day we all visited Capitol Hill, the nostalgic feelings poured upon me as we entered and walked through the halls of our U.S. Capitol. We, the constituents from each state, flooded into many offices of senators and representatives; this was exciting, exhilarating and rewarding, with feelings all bundled into one BIG day of fulfillment. We were ready and prepared to discuss various issues affecting veterans — including paying the Coast Guard during the government shutdown, veteran suicide, and of course the Maj. Richard Star Act — just to name a few that were a top priority of discussion. The Legion Family members from the state of Alaska met with both senators and a representative of the House. All were welcoming, listened attentively, and were truly supportive of The American Legion’s priorities, expressing any support necessary to further improve the lifestyles of our veterans, their families, and our communities. 

Smith also stated on the day of visiting Capitol Hill: “At first, it was a little intimidating, but by the end of the day, I felt very comfortable speaking with the representatives or their staffers.”  I too can attest to how Julie felt — intimidation at first and later the feeling of comfort and ease. 

All Auxiliary members visiting Capitol Hill were asked to share our latest Auxiliary magazine and of course membership applications … you never know if there may be one additional member walking through the halls of the Capitol.

One additional highlight of the conference involved the Department of Alaska having a brief cameo on national TV during an interview which was happening with Marco Rubio as we were passing through the intersection of the halls. Within minutes, we were being notified by family and friends that our faces were on national TV — this was exciting to see during replays.

“If you ever have the opportunity to attend the annual Washington Conference, I highly recommend attending,” said Teresa Simmons-Copeland, NEC from the Department of Texas. She informed me that she had an amazing time and enjoyed walking down the halls of her elected leaders to advocate for our veterans, military, and their families.

Remember: Your voice is powerful, your voice is strong, and your voice is a platform to take action and advocate for veterans and the mission of the Legion Family.  

Don’t forget: Complete a Congressional Contact Report Form after any engagement with Congress members. The reported contact makes a difference.