Join the LGBTQ+ Justice and Opportunity Network, Out Accountability Project, and EqualityCT for a day of action at the Capitol and Legislative Office Building.

10:30 am – 1:00 pm – Meet with your legislators and be visible at the Legislative Office Building

1:00 pm – Press conference with Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz We will start the day in the Legislative Office Building (LOB) then move over to the North Lobby of the Capitol with the Lieutenant Governor for her TDoV press conference.

What to expect:

Advocacy: meet with your legislators about the community’s priority bills Be in community: connect with others in support of the LGBTQ+ community A special surprise: hmmm…what could be up our sleeves?

Wayfinding: Volunteers will be stationed in the atrium of the LOB near the security entrance to help you navigate the LOB and the Capitol, provide information for your meetings, and make sure you are in the right place at the right time. Look for the folks wearing a fluffy rainbow scarf!

Parking information:

Parking is available in the LOB garage, but spaces are limited. If the first entrance to the visitor parking is full, keep driving around the bend to find the second entrance.

How to book a meeting with your legislator:

You have two state legislators in Connecticut: a State House Representative and a State Senator. You are welcome to meet with either or both. CT House Representatives cover a smaller area and will be more familiar with local politics. 1.  Find your legislator here: http://www.cga.ct.gov/asp/menu/CGAFindLeg.asp. Once you’ve located them, click on their name to go to their website for a phone number, email, and other information.

2. Make an appointment:  For Representatives, send them an email requesting a 15-minute meeting on Monday, March 31, any time between 10:30 am and 12:30 pm. Let them know you are participating in the Project’s TDoV Legislative Day of Action. For Senators, email their aide, whose email and phone number can be found on each Senator’s “bio & contact” page of their website.

3.  Meet with your legislator:  have a conversation about any bills or initiatives you support and ask for their input.

Tips for meeting your legislators:

First, don’t be intimidated! We understand there is a power dynamic in play, but legislators are people too and most of them sincerely care. Some of them are even passionate about support the LGBTQ+ community.

Second, pick a conversation starter. If they are a cosponsor of a bill, start by thanking them for addressing the issue that bill corrects (this information will be included in your packet), then direct their attention to another bill(s) you want to discuss. You can also start a conversation by mentioning your concerns about what is happening at the federal level and thanking the state for taking action to shield its residents, then move into the bill(s) you want to discuss. Last, remember you have 15 minutes. Be concise and be sure to listen.