by Claire Stanley
As we come to the end of the 119th Congressional session, we must think about what the next session will bring. It can often feel discouraging when, after a two-year session, the bills we have been pushing for do not make it across the finish line. What happens when bills are not adopted into law at the end of the two-year process? They are wiped clean and must be reintroduced in the next session if advocates want to attempt to get them passed in the next Congressional session. This process can seem exhausting sometimes. But I hope we can instead look at this opportunity with excitement. This is a time to begin anew and speak out for the blind and low vision community in innovative and exciting ways.
It is also true that more is being done at the state level right now. As a result, it is fair to assert that advocacy should broaden to address things in a different manner to see real change. Some advocates assert we should completely shift from congressional advocacy to different forms of advocacy. However, we should still work to advocate at the federal level. Yes, things may take time, but it’s part of the process. Yes, advocates should always pivot to most effectively make change. We want to be strategic and not just do the same old thing if it is not working. But we must continue to show our face in Washington, D.C. Although things may change, we should continue to speak for our community in the halls of Congress. Things may be difficult, but we do not want to abandon them altogether.
Therefore, although things may look different and we may pivot to alternative forms of advocacy in some capacity, and we must acknowledge the differences in our federal government right now, ACB will continue to speak to our legislature about the needs of the blind and low vision community.
Remember, keep advocating. We hope you all felt empowered if you voted in the November mid-term elections.