Five reasons why you should be involved this Advocacy Month

ASDA’s Advocacy Month is coming up this November, and Colorado ASDA will be hosting our week-long Advocacy Academy Nov. 5—9th. The month will focus on the importance of advocacy and how you can Find out. Reach out. Speak out. this midterm season.

Here are five reasons why you should participate this month:

1. It’s Midterms Elections.

   Midterm elections are the elections in which votes choose members of Congress. This year, voters will elect all 435 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives and one-third of all U.S. senators. This means, midterms will determine which political party – Democratic or Republican – will control Congress for the next two years.

2. “Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn't mean politics won't take an interest in you.” -Pericles.

   Whether you like it or not, people you don’t know are making decisions that impact your personal and professional life.

3. You get a say.

   You have the ability to elect the people who make the policies on issues such as the economy, student loans, and the future of healthcare. Your vote plays a direct role in what happens. Election Day is Nov. 6 this year, make sure you’re registered to vote.

4. Fun fact: Five dentists are running for Congress this year

   There are five dentists running for Congress: Mike Simpson, Brian Babin, Paul Gosar, Drew Ferguson and Jeff Van Drew. Check out Engage to review biographical information and a scorecard outlining candidates' votes on bills ASDA has taken a position on.

5. Insta-cred.

   If anything, do it for the gram and be sure to use #ASDAadvocacy and #ColoradoASDA

To learn more about importance of advocacy in dentistry, attend Colorado ASDA’s Advocacy Academy Week. This year we will focus on key topics including: midterm elections, licensure updates and we will have the opportunity to hear from the Colorado Dental Association’s President, Dr. Karen Foster. Stay tuned for the details!

Don’t forget, by participating in these events you can earn points towards your Advocacy Certificate.

About the Author:

Lynn Doan is a 3rd year student and currently serves as Colorado ASDA Vice President and District 9 Legislative Liaison. She received her bachelor’s degree in Biology from Colorado College. In her spare time, she can be found reading, rock climbing, and watching cooking shows.