The Power of Storytelling in Legislative Testimony and Why It Matters
Advocacy involves engaging with decision-makers and influencers, taking thoughtful actions, and meeting with policymakers. In this workshop, you’ll discover how storytelling can enhance your testimony before legislative committees, how to craft compelling written testimony, and effective strategies for communicating with legislators. This session is designed for everyone—regardless of background or experience—because every voice counts. You have a right to ask your representatives to listen, and your story has the power to drive real change. Now, more than ever, your voice and lived experiences are urgently needed in the halls of power. Join us and equip yourself to deliver testimony that cannot be ignored.
Presenters:
Lianna Kressin, Policy & Field Manager, Statewide Poverty Action Network
Celeste Levy, Communications Coordinator, Statewide Poverty Action Network
Part of Refugee Community Building Conference ‘26
Conference Registration
Early Bird Registration: We are pleased to offer a limited number of free tickets. If you are interested, please fill out the scholarship form.
For group registration and scholarship requests, please email events@naapr.org or udita@naapr.org.
Regular Registration: Regular online registration is open from July 1 to September 1 at 5:00pm PT. The registration fee is $120 for all attendees. Register online before September 1, as online regular registration closes then.
For group registration please email events@naapr.org or udita@naapr.org.
For scholarship requests, please click the link below:
Conference Schedule
Friday, September 18, 2026
8:30-9:30 am
Registration and Breakfast
9:30- 10:15 am
Welcome, Opening Keynote, and Ethnic Entertainment
10:30 am- 12:00 pm
Concurrent Sessions
12:15 pm Lunch
1:45- 3:15 pm
Concurrent Sessions
3:15- 4:00 pm
Visit the Resource Room and Networking
4:00 – 4:30
Closing Remarks & Door Prizes
Hotel and Parking
Our 2026 Refugee Community Building Conference will be held at:
Seattle Airport Marriott Hotel
3201 S 176th St, Seattle, WA 98188
On-Site Parking
The hotel offers discounted parking for $18 per day plus tax (Port of Seattle and State tax).
Parking is limited. Carpooling is strongly encouraged.
Valet
Daily: $41.00
Visit Marriott’s website for most accurate parking information.
Accessibility
Click here to view accessibility information on Marriot’s website
Notice of Photo and Videotaping
We will be taking photos and video throughout the conference for use on websites, in social media, and other materials. Your attendance at the conference constitutes your consent to be photographed, filmed, and/or otherwise recorded without compensation.