Texas Junior Fellows were not able to host their traditional day of advocacy at the state capitol in-person this year, but that did not prevent them from engaging with state lawmakers. More than 70 physicians and medical students recently attended Junior Fellow Advocacy Day on Friday, February 5. This year’s event was virtual and provided the opportunity for some members to attend that may not have otherwise because of work schedule demands and travel requirements.
Attendees learned more about District XI’s priorities for the 87th Texas legislative session and how members can get involved with advocacy efforts from District XI leadership and longtime lobbyist team, Mignon McGarry and Associates. Honored guests included State Representative Donna Howard, State Representative Toni Rose, and Legislative Director for the Office of State Representative John Bucy, III, Allison Heinrich.
Junior Fellow District XI Chair, Arame Thiam-Diouf, MD, moderated discussion throughout the event. Questions addressing maternal mortality and extending Medicaid benefits for women one-year postpartum were a common theme throughout the day. Attendees were encouraged to engage with their own local state leaders on these and other issues impacting women’s healthcare. Many of the members will also attend ACOG’s Congressional Leadership Conference in March to learn more about federal advocacy and have the opportunity to meet with various members of Congress.