Genetics Day on the Hill
Thursday, July 26, 2007
Capitol Hill, Washington, DC

Genetics Day on the Hill was an opportunity to impact policy issues that affect all of us. We took our cause to key policymakers and educated them about genetic diseases, genetic testing policy, and the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act. Washington policymakers have the ability to make decisions that impact laws throughout the nation, but we exercised our role in influencing those outcomes!

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Genetics Day on the Hill began with a breakfast briefing at which Sharon Terry, President of Genetic Alliance, briefed attendees on key policy issues. Next, all participants worked with leaders who guided them through the schedule of meetings with key Hill staffers. Finally, the event wrapped up with a debriefing and special group photo opportunity in front of the Capitol Building.

This year’s event was an amazing success! We built on the relationships we have established with Hill offices and built new connections. Best of all, we raised the profile of each participating organization in the Genetic Alliance community to national leaders.

	What was the most impactful aspect of the event? “Knowing that we made a big difference by being there.” “Seeing how well our group worked with each other—all for the same cause.” “The opportunity to meet with so many smart and talented and funny people who are so passionate about their cause. It was a great day.”
Genetics Day on the Hill participants meet Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR)

“The whole process was new to me—any skills I have now were newly attained. I feel confident that I can now easily carry on a conversation or hold a meeting with Congressional staff.”
	Senator Mel Martinez’s (R-FL) staffer Mike Bassett greets Genetics Day on the Hill attendees.

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