Have you ever wondered if your voice really makes a difference on Capitol Hill? Or wondered if your voice really matters to your Member of Congress? If so, I'm here to encourage you: IT DOES make a difference! YOU make a difference!
On July 22, 2009, Representative Steve Cohen from Tennessee signed on as a Cosponsor of the FREED Act. Since Jeanine and I hadn't personally met with his staff to discuss FREED, we were curious as to how the Congressman heard about the bill and what encouraged him to sign on. Jeanine called Congressman Cohen's office and was told that the Congressman signed on as a cosponsor of the FREED Act because one of his constituents had written a letter expressing why the FREED Act is so vital and important to her.
Because of this one person's voice the FREED gained another cosponsor! It is so important to remember that you have the gift and the power to use your voice and that your voice matters, including on Capitol Hill, where your voice as a constituent makes a difference to Members of Congress!
Margaret Mead's famous quote lends the sentiment ever fittingly, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." Each of you is a unique voice in the "small group of thoughtful, committed citizens" and each of you CAN make a difference!
Thank you to each and all of you who continue to speak out and speak up about the FREED Act and Eating Disorders! With your voice, and our collective voices, I truly believe we WILL witness the passage of the FREED Act! IF you haven't sent your letter do so now. Go to the following EDC website link and follow the easy step-by-step guide to writing your letter today http://www.eatingdisorderscoalition.org/take-action.htm
From the Hill ~ your Policy Assistant, Kathleen
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