What is Trans Advocacy Day?

Trans Advocacy Day is an annual opportunity to make sure lawmakers hear directly from the people whose lives are most affected by their policies. A collaboration between Gender Justice League and Planned Parenthood, we organize to bring busloads of 2STGD people and our allies to the state capitol in Olympia WA and facilitate attendees meeting face-to-face with elected officials to tell personal stories and advocate for policies that are vital for our community’s wellbeing and safety.

Why Join Trans Advocacy Day?

Advocacy Day is a unique and powerful opportunity to influence change. When we gather at the state capitol, we’re not only advocating for ourselves, but for the entire 2STGD community. Here’s why your participation matters:

• Be a Voice for Change: Lawmakers need to hear from constituents who are directly impacted by their decisions. Your personal story can be the catalyst for change.
• Grow Your Advocacy Skills: Trans Advocacy Day includes training on how to effectively engage with lawmakers, share your story, and navigate the legislative process. Whether you’re new to advocacy or an experienced organizer, there’s something for everyone to learn.
• Build Community: Trans Advocacy Day—and organizing in general—isn’t just about policy. It’s also about connection. You’ll meet other advocates who share your passion for justice, building opportunity to create networks of support that last long after the day ends.

What to Expect on Trans Advocacy Day

Trans Advocacy Day kicks off with a morning training session where you’ll receive everything you need to feel confident and prepared. We’ll cover:

• Policy Advocacy 101: Learn the basics of how a bill becomes a law, and how you can influence the process.
• Storytelling for Change: Understand the power of your story and how to share it effectively with lawmakers.
• Issue Briefing: Get up to speed on the key issues and bills we’re focusing on this year, and how to connect them with your personal story to move lawmakers.

After the morning training session, participants will head to the capitol for scheduled meetings with legislators. You’ll have the opportunity to speak directly with elected officials about the issues that matter most to you and our community. Throughout the day, GJL staff will be on hand to offer support and guidance.

After your scheduled meeting(s), we will break for a provided lunch, and end with a rally. The rally features community members, guest speakers, and legislators talking about the key bills and issues that we are addressing at advocacy day. We will invite the press to attend so that we can educate the public about what bills are working their way through the legislature. If you are interested in public speaking this is a great chance to practice with a supportive audience of your peers!

Join us for Trans Advocacy Day!

Trans Advocacy Day is open to everyone: Whether you’re a member of the Two-Spirit, Trans, and Gender Diverse community, or an ally supporting our collective fight for justice. No prior experience is necessary—we provide all the training and tools you need to make an impact!

language in the meantime: save the date! subscribe to our email newsletter and/or follow us on social media to stay up to date on when registration becomes available.

Can’t attend in person? In addition to in-person advocacy, we’ll also be leading digital actions for those who can’t make it to Olympia. Whether you’re reaching out to lawmakers through emails or calls, or amplifying our message on social media, there are many ways to get involved and make your voice heard. Sign up to be notified of other volunteer opportunities! (link to email list)

add buttons to point to past blog posts about advocacy day