Advocacy Day FAQ
I want to come but can't afford to. Is there assistance?
PMHC is a grassroots movement powered by our supporters and donors. Our resources are used very carefully so we can make sure that every dollar spent gets used to amplify our message to the right decision makers. As such, we are unable to accommodate all requests for assistance. However, we understand that some people are deeply impacted by this issue and are unable to afford the trip costs. If you are passionate about aviation mental health and aeromedical reform but can't afford travel or lodging, PMHC may be able to assist. After you RSVP, you will be sent the Attendee Questionnaire. You can indicate your request for financial assistance in the questionnaire and we will do our best to get you to DC.
Is there an event hotel?
Yes. PMHC has secured block rate of rooms at the Holiday Inn Express DC Downtown. You may book your room through the link in the advocacy day description page or via the email you received after you RSVP'd. You are not required to stay at this hotel.
Who will we be meeting with?
PMHC will aim to pre-schedule meetings for all attendees of the event. These meetings take time to finalize and the logistics for moving us all around the Capitol can get complex, so you may not know exactly who your meetings are with until closer to the event. You will be shared on our event app, Arena, as we get closer to the event. This app will help you keep track of all your meetings as well as the event schedule.
Will I be meeting with my Congressperson?
Maybe! In the attendee survey we will be asking about your home address, this is to determine your Congressional district. You may or may not meet with your Congressperson or their staff. PMHC will schedule meetings that focus on members of key committees, such as the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. If you have a pre-existing relationship with a member of Congress, please let us know.
Do I have to stay the whole time?
We request attendees be available on Tuesday March, 12th from 8am to 5pm. We understand some people will need to leave a little early to catch return flights. If you are planning to leave early, please make us aware of this in the attendee survey. There will be an event on the night of 3/11 that we encourage (but do not require) you to attend, and there will likely be a group breakfast on 3/12 that will include a final briefing before we start our day. There will be an optional social gathering on the evening of 3/12. You are encouraged to attend in whatever capacity you can, but please note that joining us in the middle of the day on 3/12 will be much more challenging than leaving early.
Why should I come to PMHC's Advocacy Day?
There is no better way for members of Congress to hear about issues than directly from their constituents. As a citizen, you have a right to express your opinion on the topic of pilot mental health and any other issue. By coming together as a united voice for aeromedical reform, we will send a message to Congress that this issue can no longer be ignored. Your presence on Capitol Hill will make a big difference.