Computing Researchers Travel to D.C. to Make the Case for Computing

On September 14, 21 computing researchers from across the country visited Washington, D.C. to make the case before Congress for federally funded computing research. The volunteers, traveling from as near as Maryland and Pennsylvania, and as far away as Utah and California, participated in nearly 50 House and Senate meetings. Their message to Congress was very simple: Federally supported computing research is vital to the nation’s future. Using their own research and individual stories as support, and reinforced with additional information from CRA, they made the “Federal case” for computing to members of Congress and their staff. Just as important as the message they presented, they also made valuable connections with the officials who represent them in D.C. Those members now know more about the expertise and interesting (and important) computing work that occurs in their districts and states, and our participants have a better sense of just who represents them in Congress. And they’ve hopefully started a lasting dialogue on both sides.

How You Can Help

As a reminder, if you would like to participate in a Congressional Visit Day or are in Washington, D.C. and would like to visit your representative’s office, please contact Brian Mosley (bmosley@cra.org) in the CRA Government Affairs Office. CRA can provide expert training, messaging, and materials, and we would also be happy to accompany you to your congressional meetings.