Preparing for Brain Injury Advocacy day at the State Capitol. 

Before you arrive:

• Practice introducing yourself
  • Name
  • Where you live
  • How are you connected to brain injury
  • How has brain injury impacted you
  • How has BIAIA supported you

• Review the legislative agenda and rehearse how you might share the information with legislators
• The capitol can be a stimulating place to be (cognitively, visually and auditorily).  Consider if and how you will take breaks.
• Consider scheduling time to visit with your legislator beforehand on February 14, 2024 between 11am and 2pm
• Find your legislator HERE

Arriving at the Capitol (1007 E Grand Ave, Des Moines, IA 50319):

• Find a map HERE to learn about parking
• Public entrances are located on the ground floor of the Iowa State Capitol on the south and west sides of the building. Upon entrance into the building, the public will walk through a security scan.

Navigating the building:

• Use this Capitol MAP to help you orient yourself
• The cafeteria can be found on the ground floor
• BIAIA will invite you to sign in on the 1^st floor at a table near the Rotunda at 10am
• The house and senate can be found on the 2^nd floor

Participate in Brain Injury Advocacy Day

• Check in with BIAIA at 10am to pick up advocacy materials
• Stay for a short rally, discussion and opportunity to ask questions
• Visit with your legislators – BIAIA staff are available to provide support if you desire
  • Look up your legislator (house and senate) HERE
  • Go up to the 2^nd floor
    • Approach page desks to ask to see your legislator
    • Introduce yourself and deliver the advocacy packet

After Participating in Brain Injury Advocacy Day Considerations

• Follow your legislators on social media, get on newsletter lists
• Consider attending legislative events in your community
• Build relationships with your legislator
• Follow BIAIA on social media and become a member HERE to receive up to date information