HUNDREDS GATHER IN OLYMPIA TO SPEAK UP FOR WA KIDS AND FAMILIES
On Tuesday, January 20, advocates from across Washington gathered in Olympia to fight for our state’s children at Have a Heart for Kids Day. Children’s Alliance’s annual day of advocacy brings together community members at every level to connect, learn, and speak directly with legislators.
The energy was palpable during the event’s morning activities as advocates representing 35 districts streamed into St. John’s to build community and learn how they could make an impact by sharing their stories.
Parents, educators, health providers, and nonprofit leaders met and reconnected, with some celebrating their fifth year of attending Have a Heart for Kids Day. Children huddled around sign-making stations and made new friends over toys their parents brought from home.
“It’s a fun day and it felt nice to be in community with people who care!”
The event also highlighted important organizational alignment. It wouldn’t have been possible without our partners, including Kindering, Seattle Children’s, Washington Communities for Children, Children’s Campaign Fund, Families of Color Seattle, Washington Family Engagement, Save the Children Action Network, Washington Association for Head Start and ECEAP, and so many more.
After morning activities, advocates took to the Capitol Campus to meet with their representatives and share their stories and policy priorities. In total, advocates met with 78 legislative offices representing every corner of Washington state.
“This was a really invigorating day, I’m so glad I attended and that my kiddo got to experience it as well. Looking forward to future years! ”
The day concluded with a powerful demonstration of collective strength as advocates gathered on the Capitol Steps to rally for our children. Organizational leaders from Children’s Alliance, Kindering, and Seattle Children’s expressed gratitude and highlighted the need to advocate for early learning, health equity, and economic justice for families in Washington.
Parent advocates shared their personal experiences and the need to protect access to important programs like Medicaid, Early Support for Infants and Toddlers, and Working Connections Child Care. Representative Natasha Hill called on advocates to continue fighting for early learning, and Representative Lisa Callan and Attorney General Nick Brown shared why legislation prioritizing youth behavioral health should be a priority for us all.
Thank you to everyone who showed up to advocate for our state’s children! We are incredibly grateful to be part of such a passionate and activated community. We are truly stronger together.
