Meet with your legislators in person

Communicating directly with your elected officials is an important way to make your voice heard. Whether your meeting takes place in your hometown or in Washington, D.C., here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your visit goes smoothly.

Step 1: Identify your members of Congress

Each person in the U.S. is represented by one representative and two senators. You can find out who represents you on the House and Senate websites.

Step 2: Schedule a meeting

Members of Congress split their time between their home districts and Washington, D.C. They may be available to meet with constituents in either office, depending on whether Congress is in session. Contact information for each official is available online.

Step 3: Do some research, practice and prepare for your meeting

Before you meet, make sure you’ve done your homework. How does your state and district benefit from biomedical research? Use this resource to find out the economic impact of biomedical research in your area. 

Step 4: Attend the meeting

Put your research and preparation into practice, and then, as the meeting concludes, leave your member of Congress with some information about the importance of research. Here are some fliers you can print out:

• Basic Science Saves Lives Handout
  A one-page summary on the importance of basic science and its impact on the economy.
• The United States as Leaders in Basic Science Handout
  A one-page summary on global competitiveness and the role of the U.S. in basic science.
• NIH’s Role in Sustaining the U.S. Economy
  A summary prepared by United for Medical Research (UMR) on how NIH funding benefits every state.

Step 5: Follow up with the office

Write a note thanking the official and/or staff members for meeting with you.