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Over 125 people from all across the state participated in our first ever Lobby for Kids Day on March 14 at the state capitol. Dozens of legislators heard from parents, educators, students and service providers about the needs of children and their families in our state. The Orpheum Theater, a historic movie house on Madison's State Street, served as the gathering point. Participants heard an update on the state budget, and then learned tips and strategies for making their case with legislators. The group then filed over to the Capitol, where teams of advocates met on-one-one with their elected officials. Most people also took the opportunity to stop into Governor Doyle's office and leave a message. Senator Risser and his staff gave the each of the constituents who visited his office an opportunity to share their own ideas and concerns. Senator Decker, co-chair of the Joint Finance Committee, made the time to meet with nearly 20 of our attendees even though they were not his constituents. Legislative staff told us they were pleasantly surprised to have so many people show up to talk to them about children. For many of our participants, this was their first visit to the Capitol. Some were not even sure who their legislators were until they arrived. Others were regulars in the halls of the Capitol. Regardless of their background, as people joined us in the Senate Parlor to debrief us on their visits, their enthusiasm was contagious. It didn't hurt that other organizations had their lobby days on the same day. The halls were lively as child advocates, carpenters and school board members made their way around, offering each other help in finding an office or holding the elevator. People felt empowered by their experience. Newcomers promised to make a habit of visiting their legislators, and veterans felt rejuvenated by the experience of helping those who were new to the capitol. | ||||
