ADVOCATES RALLY TO SHOW SUPPORT FOR KIDS AND FAMILIES
On February 11 advocates from across Washington traveled to Olympia for Have a Heart for Kids Day. This annual day of advocacy is an opportunity for advocates to tap into their personal political power, speak directly to their elected representatives, and raise their voices about the issues that matter in their communities.
The day began at The United Churches of Olympia where we learned about the political process, crafted messages for legislators, and created signs for the rally. Then, we headed to the Capitol campus where advocates shared their stories and policy priorities with more than 30 legislators representing 18 districts, from the Puget Sound to Spokane and Bellingham to Moses Lake.
What advocates had to say
“I brought my 8-year-old son with me to the advocacy day. His class has been learning about government, and he learned even more by participating in this event at the capital. The day was extremely organized. Children's Alliance provided us clear information about how to advocate, what to advocate for, set up the meetings with the representatives and senators and supported the meetings. They also provided breakfast, lunch and supplies to make rally signs. My son enjoyed completing the Capitol Scavenger Hunt, which taught him so much! The whole day felt focused, connected and empowering.”
– Katie Jessop, Legislative District 3
Katie Jessop and her son at a meeting with their legislators.
“Kitsap Strong brought a group of staff, students, and parents to the Have a Heart for Kids Day because we believe in the Children's Alliance platform for early learning and child care, health equity, and economic justice. In particular, we were excited to bring high school students from our Youth Leadership Team who have identified youth mental/behavioral health as their priority area of concern. Have a Heart for Kids Day gave them the opportunity to talk to their elected officials in support of Children's Alliance's three-part solution to address this crisis. During our legislative visits, we found legislators and their staff to be curious and supportive and good listeners of our perspectives within the framework of Children's Alliance's legislative platform. At the rally, we were motivated and energized by leaders, legislators, and parents who told their stories and encouraged us to continue to raise our voices. This was a day that connected and inspired us and gave us the opportunity to work for positive change that supports our state's children and youth!”
- Promise Partner, Legislative District 26
Powerful partnerships
We closed out the day with our organizational partners for the event, BrightSpark Early Learning Services and KINDERING, as more than 100 advocates braved the cold to demonstrate our collective power with a rally on the Capitol Steps. Organizational leaders highlighted the importance of centering racial equity, protecting commitments made by the Fair Start for Kids Act and stabilizing funding for special education. Parent advocates and content experts shared their personal experiences and what’s at stake for their families this session. Senator Claire Wilson spoke to the importance of protecting essential child programming against cuts, and Senator Noel Frame connected the needs of advocates at the rally with the need to fix Washington’s regressive tax code.
Thank you to everyone who came together to advocate for Washington children! We are so grateful to advocate alongside community to uplift children’s well-being in policy decisions.
The legislative session is in full swing! Check out our bill tracker to stay updated on the progress of our priority bills.