From the President

To support legislation and regulations beneficial to federal civilian employees and annuitants and potential annuitants under any federal civilian retirement system and to oppose those detrimental to their interests. To promote the general welfare of federal civilian employees and annuitants and potential annuitants, to advise and assist them with respect to their rights under retirement, health and other employee and retiree benefits laws and regulations, and to represent their interests before appropriate authorities. To cooperate with other organizations and associations in furtherance of these general objectives.

An Active August

The buzz in DC lately has covered a range of topics. COVID-19 cases and deaths are about the lowest they have been since March 2020. In an era of hyperpolarized politics, President Biden remains nostalgic for his old-school dealmaking approach on infrastructure and how to pay for it. Immigration, the jobs report and the budget make up the administration’s remaining agenda items for 2021. Can the two parties reach consensus on major policy proposals? President Biden must address our most basic needs—high-quality, affordable health care; safe, accessible housing; top-notch education; food security; paid family or sick leave; and child care. These needs are universal and access to them should not be determined by skin color, income or geographical location.

In August, members of Congress “recess,” during which they return to their home states. As such, NARFE designates August as Grassroots Advocacy Month. This is your opportunity to move the policy needle, making sure that elected officials know about and understand NARFE’s concerns. Many members of Congress will hold town-hall-style meetings to hear what their constituents have to say. These events are great opportunities to let elected representatives know what is important to you. Using the vast resources on NARFE’s advocacy webpage, be sure to articulate how issues affect you personally.

In the past, face-to-face meetings with lawmakers during the August recess were commonplace. You could engage them at state and county fairs, town halls and one-on-one meetings. The new normal, however, may place restrictions on in-person events and large gatherings. Regardless of the meeting method, the same general principles apply—have a concise, effective message; keep it simple; tell your story; and have a clear “ask.” Don’t forget to keep your conversation local with state- and district-specific information. After the meeting, send a thank you note and include any necessary follow-up information.

Don’t let the congressional recess pass by without expressing NARFE’s views. Please contact advocacy@narfe.org with questions about how to participate in advocacy activities during NARFE’s Grassroots Advocacy Month.

As America appears to be turning the corner on the coronavirus pandemic, consider spending time with friends and family that you haven’t seen in a while. As always, stay safe. I look forward to seeing you soon.

KENNETH J. THOMAS NARFE NATIONAL PRESIDENT

natpres@narfe.org