Professional religious communicators work hard to make a difference. How can an effective communications program be an integral part of the advocacy work faith-based organizations do on Capitol Hill? From one-on-one lobbying efforts to applying public pressure to harnessing the power of social media, learn more about how people of faith can – and do – make an impact on public policy. Gain practical knowledge you can apply to your own organization’s communications strategy.

On Saturday morning, March 21, the Religion Communication Congress will bring advocates from D.C. faith organizations together with social media experts to describe how advocacy works, both in person and in the digital sphere. Persons who have spent time on both the giving and receiving ends of this work will discuss best practices, what can be successful, and what does not work.

Top leaders from the faith-based advocacy community will come together in a panel moderated by Martin Shupack, Director of Advocacy for Church World Service. He will be joined by Sister Simone Campbell, Executive Director of NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice. Her signature “Nuns on the Bus” trips have gained national attention for their focus on tax justice, healthcare, economic justice, and comprehensive immigration reform.

Also on the panel:

• Suhag Shukla, Esq., Executive Director and co-founder of the Hindu American Foundation
• Rev. Jimmie Ray Hawkins, Director of the Presbyterian Church (USA) Office of Public Witness in Washington, D.C.
• Nina Fernando, Program Director, Shoulder to Shoulder Campaign

The day also includes a conversation about Twitter and social media, including its effective – and ineffective – use on Capitol Hill and in the broader world. Sofi Hersher, the managing director of ignite:action and former assistant communications director at the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, will moderate the conversation.

The day wraps up with an in-depth look at what faith groups are actively working on with Congress. Amelia Kegan, the legislative director for domestic policy at the Friends Committee on National Legislation, will provide an issue briefing on the bills and discussions happening on Capitol Hill, along with a look at the legislative priorities for many faith communities.

Registration is open to all and the early bird deadline continues to February 22, 2020.

The Hyatt Regency Crystal City Hotel is the official venue for RCCongress 2020. Special RCCongress 2020 rates are in effect for room nights booked between March 14 and March 22, as long as they are reserved by the February 22 deadline. You may also call 1-877-803-7534 and mention RCCongress 2020 to book a reservation by phone.

For a complete list of speakers and program schedule, visit our website at www.RCCongress2020.org or follow us on social media!

Contact: media@rccongress2020.org, 212-870-2402