The Congressional staff members that we met with also shared their thoughts on how we could be most effective in influencing policy. They urged to act at a local, state and national level; call our congressional leaders, go to town hall meetings, run for local office, show up, march – all of the above. They were very appreciative of the specific information and expertise that we offered on these topics and expressed uncertainty about the direction of energy policy moving forward. It was a chaotic week in Washington when I visited, everyday a new development – but I came away feeling that our voices were heard, our expertise acknowledged and as architects we must continue fighting for our values and for a sustainable future.

For more information on the AIA COTE Advocacy Network:
https://network.aia.org/committeeontheenvironment/advocacy