Action Advocacy Day

Advocacy Action Day successfully taught young advocates in the Houston area the importance of using their voice while advocating for S. 1580. Our coalition and community members wrote 50 letters and made 20 calls to lobby for Senator Cornyn and Senator Cruz’s support. Letters were addressed to both senators, chiefs of staffs, legislative directors, and regional directors. The event also included short speeches from leaders of regional refugee centers for more insight on the impact S. 1580 will have. Speakers included Ms. Jennifer Garmon who is executive director of PAIR Houston which works closely with refugee students in the area to transition them into public education. Ms. Laquitta DeMerchant also spoke about the importance of youth advocacy and the Alliance's work in creating programs with refugee women artisans in Houston and helping refugees attain self-sustainability. Along with them, representatives from the Congressman Beto O'Rourke (running for Texas U.S. Senator) and Sri. Kulkarni (running for U.S. House) campaigns attended.