On Tuesday, June 17, more than 100 residents, organizational members, advocates, and community leaders joined The Coalition for a powerful demonstration of collective action and a call for investments in housing, small business support, and jobs in the FY2026 District Budget.
Armed in our traditional yellow shirts, Advocacy Day participants gathered at the JW Marriott in downtown DC for a morning of connection, preparation, and purpose. After breakfast and opening remarks, and a keynote from Councilmember Charles Allen (Ward 6), advocacy delegations led by The Coalition’s staff, board of directors, and working group leaders met with the offices of eight DC Councilmembers.
These meetings centered around The Coalition’s FY26 Budget Recommendations, which call for targeted investments in affordable housing production and preservation, small business ecosystem building and support strategies, workforce development, and a more resilient and sustainable local economy.
Throughout the day, our advocacy delegations shared personal stories, data-backed insights, and lived experiences with decision-makers. To every resident, expert, nonprofit leader, and practitioner who showed up. Thank you. You demonstrated the strength of our network and the power of a diverse, collective voice. To the Councilmembers and their staff who welcomed us into their offices, we are grateful for your time, your openness, and your partnership.
The DC Council is in the final stretch of its budget process. Budget markups are underway and continue through June 25. The Coalition is actively following up with Councilmembers, providing insights and feedback, and continuing to advocate for our FY26 budget recommendations.
We’ll keep our members and supporters informed of key updates and decisions as they unfold.
and join the fight for a District where all residents can live in thriving communities that are economically just!
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