D.C. Trip frequently asked questions

Why is Unsilenced going to DC?

Unsilenced is headed to Washington, DC, to introduce the federal bill in Congress. Several events are planned around this momentous occasion to educate the public, raise awareness about our cause, and rally support for this legislation.

When is Unsilenced going to DC?

Members of Unsilenced will be in Washington, DC starting Tuesday, May 10, through Friday, May 13.

What events are happening in DC?

We’ve got a lot planned! Anyone who signs up to attend the trip will be invited to a series of informational calls over the next few weeks, where we will share more details. We will also send out updates via email to those who have signed up.

Due to the nature of these events, we can’t publicly share the details in advance for security reasons, but we will share as much as we can when we can so that everyone has as much notice as possible.

Who is going to DC?

Many members of Unsilenced’s volunteer community will be there, as well as members of other organizations who partner with and support our cause. In addition to volunteers, members of the survivor/ally community are invited to join us in DC to commemorate this event.

How should I get to DC?

Travel arrangements to and from DC are at the discretion of and are the responsibility of individuals attending the events, including members of Unsilenced. We recommend making arrangements as soon as possible to take advantage of lower travel rates.

Where should I stay in DC?

Ultimately, wherever you’d like. Lodging is the responsibility of each survivor individually.

That said, Unsilenced has arranged a small block of hotel rooms at the Hyatt Place hotel near the Capitol. A link will be provided to the larger survivor community on Monday, 4/25 so that anyone attending can book their own rooms. The room block is available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so we suggest booking as soon as you receive the link.

If you are unable to take advantage of the room block or wish to stay somewhere else, we suggest making arrangements as soon as possible to take advantage of lower lodging rates.

Is lodging free?

No. All attendees, including volunteers of Unsilenced, are responsible for reserving and paying for their own accommodations.

I can only come to DC for a short time. Is there a day I should aim to be there over others?

Wednesday, May 11, will be our most active day at the Capitol. Events will be running all day at or around the Capitol, and a significant survivor presence will be important. Make sure you sign up as an attendee of the trip to learn more details.

Will I be asked to speak publicly?

It’s possible, but if so, the Unsilenced team will reach out to you in advance to prep you for any speaking engagements. General attendees, unless notified, should not expect to have to do any public speaking. However, all survivors at survivor gatherings may have the opportunity to share their stories with individual members of the general public.

I want to share my story. Will I have the opportunity to do so?

Yes! We want you to share your story. We will all potentially have the opportunity to speak to the general public, media, etc. If asked about your story or experience, please do! The more stories we share, the more we legitimize our cause!

Unsilenced asks that if the public or the media asks you about Unsilenced as an organization, please direct those questions to a member of the Unsilenced team.

I want to speak with members of Congress about my experience. Will I have the opportunity to do so?

All attendees are encouraged to contact their members of Congress to schedule in-person meeting while in DC. We can not guarantee an appointment with your legislator but will support you in your efforts to secure time with your congresspeople. Unsilenced will help support these efforts by providing every survivor with email templates to request meetings and talking points if you schedule one.

Unsilenced asks that if the public or the media asks you about Unsilenced as an organization, please direct those questions to a member of the Unsilenced team.