Every spring, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) brings passionate Diabetes Advocates to Washington, DC, for Call to Congress—our premier advocacy event. Together, advocates from across the country meet directly with their members of Congress to share personal stories, highlight the impact of diabetes in their communities, and champion key federal priorities such as sustained funding for diabetes research and expanded access to quality health care.
Participants learn about the key policy issues of importance and meet with members of Congress to:
- Talk about the impact of diabetes
- Share their personal stories
- Advocate for priorities like:
- Federal funding for diabetes research
- Insulin affordability
- Obesity treatment and care
- Access to health care
- And more
Who can apply?
Adults living with diabetes, parents/guardians of children with diabetes (children with diabetes may accompany their parents/guardians), caregivers, health care professionals, diabetes researchers, and countless others touched or impacted by diabetes are invited to apply. Congress needs to hear ALL our stories. Your voice is powerful and we hope to see you at Call to Congress!
When will the event take place?
Call to Congress will take place March 11–13, 2026, in Washington, DC.
Watch Highlights from Call to Congress 2025
What happens during the in-person convening of Call to Congress?
Call to Congress’ in-person gathering is a three-day event in Washington, DC.
Day 1: On-Site Registration/Training Reception
Sign in at the designated registration time and receive materials at the registration desk. Following, you will join an issue prep reception which includes hearing about our legislative priorities and what to expect in meetings with senators and representatives, as well as breakout sessions with attendees from your state/region to plan Capitol Hill meetings.
Day 2: Capitol Hill Meeting Day
You will walk to Capitol Hill from a nearby hotel to attend meetings with your legislators after a group photo on the Capitol steps.
Day 3: Advocacy at Home Breakfast Program
You will have the chance to recap and share your experiences with engaging your representatives on Capitol Hill.
How to Apply
Complete your application by November 14. The information you’ll need to complete the application for Call to Congress is below—make sure to read it all!
APPLICATION FOR A CHILD WITH DIABETES: If you plan on bringing your child with diabetes who is 17 years or younger, you will need to list their name in your application.
If you plan on bringing/attending with a family member who is 18 years or older, they must complete their own application. You should both indicate that a family member has also applied by including their first and last name as part of your responses to the application question.
Expenses covered by the ADA:
- Meals during the event: dinner on March 11; breakfast, lunch meal card, and a reception with appetizers on March 12; and breakfast on March 13
- Training sessions and materials
- Briefing materials and print material for congressional meetings
- Airfare or other transportation (train, etc.)
- Hotel for one or two nights (depending on your travel needs)
Expenses covered by Call to Congress attendees:
All other expenses are expected to be covered by Call to Congress attendees
Call to Congress is more than an event—it’s a movement. Throughout the year, this initiative engages Diabetes Advocates in meaningful actions at home and in Washington, ensuring their voices are heard at every level of government. The energy and dedication of our advocates inspire leaders on Capitol Hill to support policies that improve the lives of people living with and at risk for diabetes.
Your advocacy drives real change. Together, we are moving closer to our mission: to prevent and cure diabetes and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes.
If you have any questions, please contact CallToCongress@diabetes.org.
