WAAA National Refugee Advocacy Days

Centering Lived Experience in Federal Policy

Every summer during the congressional recess, We Are All America (WAAA) trains and mobilizes refugee and immigrant leaders, civic organizers, faith leaders, and allies to move from the periphery of politics directly into the halls of power.

During our 2026 National Refugee Advocacy Days (August 17–21, 2026), delegates met virtually with congressional lawmakers to share firsthand stories, challenge false crisis narratives, and advance common-sense governance rooted in dignity, family unity, and human rights.

Empowering Advocates Through Action:

We provide the tools and coaching necessary for community architects and civic rejuvenators to step into the center of the American story:

• Navigating Congress: Understanding the distinct legislative roles, jurisdictions, and decision-making processes of the Senate and the House of Representatives.
• Strategic Outreach: Identifying district priorities, conducting effective outreach, and establishing durable, long-term relationships with elected officials and key staff.
• Effective Storytelling: Using personal lived experiences and local data to move policy conversations away from fear-based rhetoric toward practical, humane solutions.

Our Impact and Goals:

• Direct Advocacy: Mobilized over 300 delegates across 43 states to conduct more than 140 virtual meetings with congressional offices.
• System Modernization: Pushed for an orderly, fully funded U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP), protected asylum as a fundamental human right, and strengthened local resettlement agency capacity.
• Building Bipartisan Support: Educated lawmakers on the essential economic vitality, labor contributions, and community leadership that refugees and immigrants bring to their districts.

Why It Matters

Lawmakers need to hear directly from the refugee and immigrant constituents they represent to ensure federal policies reflect the realities of our communities. Sharing lived experiences and regional perspectives transforms the public dialogue from one of “crisis” to one of common-sense governance, building a more welcoming and just nation.

True civic vitality requires new energy, and constituent voices are the most powerful tool available to ensure policy reflects shared values of family, hard work, and mutual aid.

Download the Complete 2026 National Refugee Advocacy Days Report