15 February 2023

Applications Now Open for Congressional Visits Day 2023

Bethany Johns

Bethany Johns American Astronomical Society (AAS)

Be an advocate for science and astronomy. Sign up now for Congressional Visits Day (CVD) on 17-19 April 2023.

Every year the AAS brings volunteers to Washington, DC, to advocate for federal support for the priorities of the astronomical science decadal surveys and for their science with their members of Congress for CVD. CVD is an opportunity for AAS members to learn more about the federal government and policy making process, as well as how to best influence policy makers. This is also an important time for Congresspeople to hear from their constituents on what issues matter most to them and to ask for federal support and funding.

What to Expect

  • Learn how to contact and schedule a meeting with your legislators. 
  • How to craft a message that will have an impact on policy makers. 
  • Gain insight from NSF, NASA, and the Dept of Energy on how they are supporting the astronomical decadal survey priorities.  
  • Understand the federal policy landscape and how you fit into it. 
  • How to help others who want to be an advocate for science and astronomy. 

CVD will be in-person, hosted at the AAS Offices with in-person meetings on Capitol Hill. Two training webinars will be scheduled in the weeks ahead of the visits to learn how to contact your legislators to schedule a meeting in Washington, DC, and to learn more about the federal budget and appropriations process. During the first days of CVD, you will be briefed on the status of the priorities in the astronomical decadal surveys, craft and practice your message, and hear from Congressional staff on tips and tricks for a good meeting. The final day will be full of meetings with your members of Congress and staff.  

Deadline: 11:59 pm ET on Friday, 3 March 2023.

Sign Up for AAS CVD 2023