Advocacy Day 2026
March 19, 2026 | Washington, DC
Join Fulbright alumni, supporters, and advocates from across the country as we meet with Members of Congress to advocate for strong federal funding for international exchange.
Advocacy Day is an opportunity to share your story, elevate the impact of Fulbright in your state and district, and ensure policymakers understand the importance of global engagement.
What to Expect on Advocacy Day
Morning Briefing 9:30 - 10:30 AM
Congressional Meetings11:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Evening Reception5:30-7:00 PM
Room B-48
Dirksen Senate Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Our day will begin with a morning briefing where you will:
- Meet with your group
- Get a training refresher
- Pick up the physical materials you will need throuhout the day
Meetings will take place throughout the day depending on your group’s schedule.
You will:
- Meet in small constituent groups
- Share personal and local impact stories
- Deliver our funding requests
- Engage directly with Members or staff
Venable – Civiletti Center (Upstairs)
600 Massachusetts Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20001
We will conclude the day with a reception to network, debrief, and celebrate a strong day of advocacy.
What To Bring
- A valid government-issued photo ID (required for Capitol complex entry)
- Professional attire
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Any personal items needed for the day
Digital Advocacy Toolkit
Everything you need to prepare for and participate in Advocacy Day is available below.
All participants will be provided with physical copied on Advocacy Day. You do not need to print any materials.
Access the Toolkit
Submit a Meeting Report
Watch the Virtual Training
Explore the complete Advocacy Toolkit, including key talking points, policy background, tips for sharing your Fulbright story, guidance for meeting with congressional offices, and best practices for effective advocacy.
Please submit a brief report so for each meeting the national office can track conversations, follow up with offices when needed, and coordinate our broader advocacy strategy.
If you missed the live training — or want a refresher — watch the recording of our Advocacy Day preparation session, which walks through the talking points, meeting structure, and how to handle common questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I cannot attend the training live?
Attendance at the live session on March 12 at 3 PM ET is preferred. If you cannot join, you are required to watch the recording, which will be shared afterward. You will still be fully prepared for your meetings.
Will meetings be with Members of Congress or staff?
Meetings may be with either the Member, their legislative staff, or a combination. Every meeting is valuable — staff are influential and will relay your messages to the Member.
What is the dress code?
Please wear professional attire suitable for congressional meetings. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you will move between offices throughout the day.
Is there security screening on Capitol Hill?
Yes. All visitors are screened by a magnetometer, and all items that are permitted inside the building are screened by an x-ray device.
More details may be found on the U.S. Capitol website.
What personal items can I bring with me?
All visitors to the U.S. Capitol are screened by security before entry. Most everyday personal items are allowed, but some restrictions apply.
Generally allowed items include:
- Small bags no larger than 18” × 14” × 8.5″
- Phones, tablets, and other battery-powered devices (not permitted in the House or Senate galleries)
- Empty water bottles or containers
- Small personal care items such as lotions or perfumes under 3.4 oz
- Strollers
- Selfie sticks (may be carried but cannot be used inside)
Important restrictions:
- Food and beverages are not allowed in most Capitol spaces.
- Large bags and sealed packages are not permitted.
- Weapons, explosives, knives, pepper spray, or similar items are strictly prohibited.
- Aerosol sprays, laser pointers, drones, balloons, and noise-amplifying devices are also not allowed.
- Animals are not permitted except for service animals.
Visitors with medical, childcare, or accessibility needs may receive exceptions from U.S. Capitol Police.
If you plan to visit the House or Senate galleries, be aware that additional restrictions apply, and some items may need to be stored before entering.
More details may be found on the U.S. Capitol website.
How are groups assigned?
Participants are placed in small advocacy groups based on geography and experience. Group assignments will be shared in early March. Each group will have a leader to help guide the meeting.
Are materials provided or do I need to bring anything?
All advocacy materials will be provided to you physically during the Morning Briefing. You will be able to access these resources digitally via the above Advocacy Toolkit as materials become available. You do not need to print anything. Please bring only your ID, professional attire, comfortable shoes, and any personal items.
I’m a first-time advocate. What should I expect?
Don’t worry, we are happy you are joining us! The training session, your group lead, and the advocacy toolkit will guide you every step of the way. You do not need prior experience. Your personal story is your strongest advocacy tool.
Why Your Voice Matters
Fulbright alumni live and work in every state, strengthening research capacity, workforce development, and community engagement nationwide. Congressional offices pay close attention to constituent engagement — and your participation strengthens our collective impact.
Your voice matters — especially in your district.