Attend Advocacy Events
Events that bring together rheumatology clinicians and professionals and their patients to directly discuss issues with stakeholders is an integral part of the ACR’s advocacy efforts. The College has events scheduled each year to lobby Congress and the federal government on rheumatology priority priorities, but we are looking to soon expand our offerings! Stay tuned for information of future localized events near you that will offer advocacy training and the ability to speak on issues with members of your state legislature.
Learn more about current offerings below and other ways you can stay engaged with ACR advocacy throughout the year!
Advocates for Arthritis
Advocates for Arthritis is an annual event that brings together rheumatology professionals and patients to advocate on behalf of the rheumatology community. During the event, attendees will hear from top representatives from key legislative and regulatory agencies and meet with their members of Congress to discuss current issues affecting the rheumatology community. Participating in Advocates for Arthritis is a great way for ACR and ARP members to engage in the legislative process and increase awareness of rheumatology on Capitol Hill. To learn more about what occurs during these virtual visits, read A Look Inside the Advocate Experience at Advocates for Arthritis.
Note: The ACR has restructured our fly-in schedule. The next Advocates for Arthritis event will be the first full week of May 2025. More information for those interested in attending will be available in the coming months.
Sign up to receive email updates for next year’s event.
Receive Advocates for Arthritis Updates
Advocacy 101
Each May, in Washington, D.C., in conjunction with the ACR’s Advocacy Leadership Conference and designed for fellows in training, program directors, and ARP members, Advocacy 101 teaches how government polices affect rheumatology and how to become an active and effective advocate.
No prior advocacy experience is needed, and it is free to attend for accepted applicants (the ACR will cover travel and lodging costs). Sign up to receive email updates about Advocacy 101 and learn how it’s an opportunity to meet, network, and engage with ACR leaders.
Stay Involved Throughout the Year
There are many ways that you can be involved in advocacy throughout the year.
