We’re delighted to share the perspective of one provider, Niah Hamilton, on participating in the Summit and the Capitol Hill visits:
I have been in the field of home visiting for 13 years under the federal Maternal Infant Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) grant. I love seeing babies grow into thriving scholars. Being an intake coordinator, I am the first person families meet to tell their stories that too often are left unheard. So, because of this, when I was asked to join the National Home Visiting Summit, I was thrilled and honored to bring mine and the families’ voices to decision-makers. In the past, I have attended large events such as Early Child Advocacy Day in Springfield. But this was my first time meeting with any legislator in the capacity that we did.
At first it was a little intimidating walking into the Capital Building…and then it was amazement and wonder! I thought to myself, “I am actually here.” The staff and aides in the legislative offices were very open and wanted to hear our stories and voices. I felt heard and understood, and it seemed like they wanted the same things that we did for our families in Illinois. The biggest topic we were going to cover was keeping Medicaid available for families. I appreciated the fact that the staff were interested in the families’ experiences. They asked that we send them more family impact stories.
What seemed to resonate most with the people I met with was the potential impact of funding cuts on families and how many of our families depend on Medicaid benefits. I was honored to represent Illinois and my local community of Danville. It seemed surreal!
When I came back, I wanted to share my experience with everyone I met. This experience was empowering for me personally, because I felt important, heard, and valued, and it definitely changed how I view my role in shaping policies. I honestly had no idea my role could be so influential. I hope the legislators and staff remember that those on the ground working with the families, who are most impacted, are very passionate about the work. I shared with all my co-workers how their roles could also be an influence at the federal level.
Thank you again for the opportunity and I hope to attend again in the future.
