Our JDRF 2021 Government Day includes the core mission-focused elements that our grassroots leaders have come to expect and eagerly await over the years: Congressional meetings to advance issues important to the type 1 diabetes (T1D) community, updates on advocacy and research progress, an update from CEO Aaron J. Kowalski, Ph.D., peer recognition, fellowship, and more. The difference is that instead of gathering in Washington, D.C. – the event is all virtual!

On top of this, our Government Day campaign coincides with JDRF’s 2021 New Member Outreach Initiative. Every other year, as newly seated Members of Congress step into their roles, JDRF Advocates move swiftly to conduct meetings to welcome them to our cause and build relationships. Through these meetings, advocates give a voice to those impacted by T1D, and highlight the essential role new Members of Congress can play in securing Federal funding for T1D research and supporting legislative and health policies that improve the quality of life for those affected by T1D, until we find cures.

Both initiatives are an important way for JDRF advocates to share their personal connections to T1D, how it impacts their day-to-day, and highlight the financial, medical, and emotional costs of this disease. In addition, advocates are thanking Congress for the 3-year $450 million renewal of the Special Diabetes Program (SDP), and enlisting their support for:

• Legislative solutions to address insulin affordability​
• The RISE Act (which would authorize nearly $25 billion in relief for the research workforce and institutions) ​
• Robust annual funding for the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration​

There are currently about 350 Government Day meetings and close to 50 New Member Outreach Initiative meetings booked, with both campaigns wrapping at the end of May. This is simply incredible work given the many demands and priorities our grassroots leaders (and Members of Congress) are juggling!

Join these T1D champions and use your voice to drive our agenda forward on Capitol Hill and beyond. Become a JDRF Advocate today!