Advocacy Day

The Brain Injury Association of New York State will once again bring advocates together for a day of action, visibility, and advocacy on Tuesday, March 17, in Albany.

BIANYS remains committed to protecting and expanding specialized services for New Yorkers impacted by brain injury. Survivors, caregivers, family members, and advocates are invited to share their lived experiences, meet directly with legislators, observe the legislative process in action, and advocate for increased funding for programs like the Continuum of Care for Neuro-Resource Facilitation.

This year’s Advocacy Day will also highlight the power of lived experience through voices like Christian Longo, whose advocacy and leadership exemplify how personal stories can drive meaningful policy change. Christian’s commitment underscores a time-honored truth of advocacy: when individuals step forward to share their experiences, systems begin to listen, and change follows.

Last year, advocates from every corner of the state filled the Capitol with purpose and resolve. This year, we return with that same momentum and a simple principle that never goes out of style: when we stand together, our voice carries farther.

Be sure to save your spot today!

Tentative Agenda*:

9:30 am  Registration Opens (will remain open throughout the day)
10:00 am – 10:30 am Welcome Remarks: Eileen Reardon, Executive Director and Christina LeBeau, Director of Advocacy & Engagement
10:30 am – 12:00 pm Legislative Speakers (continues throughout the day)
11:50 am – 12:00 pm Kellie Reynolds, Advocate and Caregiver (Living Resources)
12:00 pm – 12:15 pm Christian Longo, Brain Injury Advocate and Survivor
12:30 pm  Lunch (will be provided to registered participants)
1:00 pm – Closing, Legislative Meetings to Continue

Community agencies will have informational tables set up throughout the day. Advocates are asked to have meetings scheduled throughout the day, independent of the scheduled program activities.

*Subject to change

Talking Points for Advocacy Day. Being prepared with clear talking points can make all the difference in your legislative meetings. These points help you communicate your priorities, share your story, and make a strong case for the brain injury community. Download them here.