Upcoming Advocacy Dates

🌟 Lead the Way in Disability Advocacy

National Down Syndrome Society- typically more of an educational/healthcare focus
Mon May 11, 2026 – Pre conference
Tues May 12, 2026 – General conference
Wed May 13, 2026 – Hill visits

“The NDSS Down Syndrome Advocacy Conference will be held on May 11-13, 2026, in Washington, D.C. This transformative annual event brings together advocates, families, professionals, and self-advocates from across the country to advance meaningful policy change. The conference will feature informative workshops, opportunities to engage with legislators on Capitol Hill, and valuable networking sessions. This conference is a crucial platform for amplifying our collective voice and influencing policy decisions that impact individuals with Down syndrome.”

National Down Syndrome Congress- all encompassing in focus areas, their policy staff has the most expertise, one staff person used to be the OSEP director actually
Tues Sept 29, 2026 – Training
Wed Sept 30, 2026 – Hill visits

“NDSC is proud to announce that September 29 – 30, 2026 we will be hosting the Down Syndrome Policy Summit at the Omni Hotel in Washington, DC! This event will feature one full day of advocacy training, where advocates will take crash courses on policy and speaking with elected officials and their staff. The next day is a Hill Day. Advocates will take to Capitol Hill where they will meet with their elected officials and staffers to advocate for policy that directly affects people with Down syndrome. Mark your calendars! Registration opens this May 2026.”