Packing Suggestions for Clergy Call
Conference Attire: Business casual attire is recommended for Monday’s conference and service. Please note that DC weather in the springtime can be unpredictable and often rainy so we suggest packing clothing suitable for a variety of weather conditions and both indoor and outdoor environments.
Attire for Capitol Hill: We strongly encourage you to wear your typical (and colorful) religious garb including robes, collars, kippahs, scarves, vestments, pendants, and other religious symbols as you are comfortable. We want Congress to take notice of our presence in Washington!
If you do not typically wear “clergy clothes” then please plan to wear a suit. Suits or similarly formal business attire are customary for Capitol Hill.
Comfortable shoes with good traction are a must for Lobby Day because you will be doing a lot of walking (and standing) around the Capitol grounds.
Preparing your Advocacy Suitcase
Prior to the conference, please take some time to think about what will separate your lobby visits from those of paid lobbyists who meet with Congressional officials daily.
As clergy and community leaders, you are often on the front lines dealing with the consequences of school bullying and job discrimination; you have seen and experienced the effects prejudice and discrimination can have on individuals and entire communities. Sharing these stories with your members of Congress is the best way to create a memorable visit and to communicate the urgency and moral necessity of enacting laws that recognize equality and dignity for all people.
Though we will provide you with faith based talking points for your lobby visits we also urge you to come prepared with your own thoughts on how your faith informs your justice work. Sharing parables, prayers, quotes, biblical verses, blessings, or scriptural commentary that uniquely ground your work for LGBT equality will further enhance the personal quality of your meetings. You are also encouraged to bring printed copies of your sermons, articles or spiritual reflections on LGBT equality to leave behind with the offices you’ll visit.
Finally, consider making an announcement during your services asking for congregants to share their letters or stories with you in advance of your trip. Additionally, consider reaching out to the clergy at neighboring congregations and offering to bring their letters to your elected officials as well. By delivering a stack of personal, religiously-grounded statements to your congressional offices, it will help emphasize the conviction and passion for LGBT equality in your hometown.
