One of the Alliance's primary roles is to work with Congress to ensure that the policy climate for international exchange and person-to-person diplomacy continues to flourish, and that federal funding for our programs continues to grow. One of the most effective ways we can accomplish these goals is by sending Alliance members to advocate on behalf of exchanges directly with their Members of Congress and staff.

Simply being a constituent, however, does not guarantee that your message will be heard; rather, solid preparation (i.e., knowing the issues for which you are advocating) is a key component to becoming a convincing advocate.

In preparation for your visits to Capitol Hill on March 4, please take time to follow the below six steps. These steps are not intended to be exhaustive, but rather to help guide you in your own research and preparation for your Advocacy Day experience. Also note that most of these topics, including the 2010 Position Papers, will be discussed in detail during the March 3 Advocacy Day Training Session and Issues Briefing, so you will have ample opportunity then to ask questions that may arise as you work through this checklist.

  Review the Alliance's 2010 Position Papers

These papers give a broad overview of exchanges, as well as focus on specific exchange areas and programs. Focus only on the issues, and thus the papers, that matter to you, your programs, and your organization.

  Get a historical perspective on the exchanges budget

To put our FY 2011 “ask” amount in perspective, get a historical perspective of exchange funding over the past decade.

  Brush up on the appropriations process

Understanding the appropriations process is an important component of a successful Capitol Hill meeting. 

  Research your Members of Congress

Craft your discussions toward the interests of your Members, which will allow you to offer more persuasive arguments.

  Know the economic benefits of exchange

Statistics and examples of the economic benefits of exchanges (made available by NAFSA: Association of International Educators and CSIET), especially when related to the Member's state or district, will bolster your points and help justify your “ask."

  What is the Alliance?

 If you're unfamiliar with the Alliance's mission, goals, and membership, check out our About and Membership Organizations pages.