You made it to the first session, and this is where it all starts to click.

A lot of people come into advocacy feeling like the legislative process is something that happens to them, not something they can actually influence. By the time you finish this session, that should feel very different. You now know how government is structured, how a bill moves through the process, what lobbying actually means and most importantly, that you have every right to show up and do it.

The SICAA case study in this session proves something that can feel abstract until you see it: ordinary people with extraordinary personal stakes can change federal law. It took three years, a lot of persistence, and survivors willing to tell their stories in rooms that felt intimidating. That’s it. That’s the formula.

Take your time with the material. If something is unclear, ask below. If something resonated, share it! Your perspective might be exactly what someone else needs to hear.

And when you’re ready, I’ll leave you with this week’s discussion question to get the conversation going:

What is the issue you care most about, and what would it mean to you — and to others — if it became law?

No pressure to have a fully formed answer. Even a sentence or two is a great place to start.

— Chelsea Filer
Executive Director & Founder, ICAPA Network

This is where things get real. You’ve got the foundation from Session 1 — now it’s time to actually use your voice.

The “Me Too” statement is one of my favorite tools to teach because it proves that you don’t need a law degree or a perfect speech to make an impact. Thirty seconds, delivered with conviction, from someone who has lived this issue — that lands. Every time.

So let’s practice right here in the comments.

What’s your go-to one-liner? Write your 30-second “Me Too” statement below.

It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t have to be polished. Just write it like you’d say it if you were standing at that podium right now. Getting it out of your head and into words is the first step — and seeing what others write might be exactly the inspiration you need to sharpen your own.

I’ll be reading every response and giving you a standing ovation!

— Chelsea Filer
Executive Director & Founder, ICAPA Network

Whether you’re just discovering this issue or you’ve been fighting for reform for years, this library was built to give you the knowledge, tools, and confidence to show up in the legislative process and make your voice count.

You’ll move through six sessions at your own pace — from understanding how government works and what lobbying actually means, to testifying at hearings, building coalitions, and walking into a legislator’s office with a pitch deck and a plan. By the time you finish, you’ll have everything you need to run a real advocacy campaign.

A few things to know before you dive in:

The library is self-guided, so there are no deadlines and no pressure. Go at whatever pace works for you. Each session builds on the last, so we recommend starting with Session 1 and working forward.

Create a free account to engage with the discussion sections at the bottom of each session. Ask questions, share what resonates, and connect with fellow advocates who are on the same journey. I read every comment and will do my best to respond personally.

This work matters. The children who are still in these facilities right now are counting on people like you to understand the system well enough to change it.

Let’s get to work.

— Chelsea Filer
Executive Director & Founder, ICAPA Network

Ralphy never sold out. He came real for me when I told him about a 15yo kid locked up in Allegheny County Jail on false charges and he found that child and his mother the help that they needed.

Only the good die young. I’ll miss you, Ralphy, and I’ll be compelled to Carry on my little part of your life’s work as I understand it. <3