By: Jameson Williams, CAL-EANGUS Board Member
There is a saying in the United States that goes, “So as California goes, so goes the nation.” However, in recent years, there has been a stark contrast between states, but most Americans will agree that our national security and our service members are essential to our domestic peace and stability. Now that I am a member of the California Army National Guard, I had no idea that my journey would take me from Hollywood’s glittering lights to Capitol Hill’s revered halls. Until I attended the EANGUS legislative conference in Washington, DC, I had no real understanding of the impact of advocacy or what it really meant to be called to serve as a guard in the Army National Guard and a newly elected board member of the California Enlisted Association. ย An annual legislative conference is held by the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States. It provides members with information on issues pertaining to policymaking and provides a platform for facilitating the influence of policy resolutions that are crucial to the well-being of traditional enlisted National Guard service members.
The Super Bowl Party and Ice Breaker
ย EANGUS brings together supporters of the National Guard from all over the country. It can be challenging to establish rapport with one another and break the ice with so many attendees who hail from a variety of states and backgrounds. But even for those who aren’t football fans, the Super Bowl party on the first night of the conference was a blast, serving food and an open bar to mellow out the nerves. It provided a fun and casual atmosphere where members from all over the country could come together and connect over something we all enjoy: a good halftime show. And as an athlete myself, I appreciated the skill and athleticism on display during the come from behind victory for the Kansas City Chiefs over the Philadelphia Eagles, even though neither team was my one trick pony. But let’s be honest: who doesn’t like a good Rihanna performance moment that turns into a meme on the internet? It was the perfect way to kick off the conference and get to know our fellow attendees.
Legislative Panels and Discussions
The EANGUS Legislative Conference isn’t just about having fun; there are also important talks and panels on legislation. Several informative and thought-provoking sessions on a variety of topics were offered to attendees.
A panel from Steptoe & Johnson LLP, a law firm that focuses on public policy and government affairs, participated in one session. Their discussion shed light on the legal issues pertaining to the National Guard and its effects on service members’ lives.
Another panel dealt with resolutions, which are policy changes that EANGUS, on behalf of members of the National Guard, advocates for. The process of drafting and advocating for resolutions, as well as the potential effects they can have on the lives of service members, were presented to attendees.
Let’s face it: it can be intimidating to sit through these panels at times, but one of the most interesting sessions taught attendees how to effectively advocate for change and make their voices heard on issues that matter to us all. This was an empowering session that motivated me to act courageously and motivated me to be willing to serve my fellow service members.
Attendees were finally briefed on several bills that were attempting to become law during a session that covered everything from the process of developing bills to several specific bills that are being pushed. The bill Tricare for all really moved me. It would guarantee that every member of the National Guard has access to health insurance, enabling them to perform state and federal duties with full qualifications.
Overall, the EANGUS Legislative Conference’s panels and discussions were interesting and instructive, giving vital information and resources needed to be a successful advocate for The National Guard. I found these sessions to be extremely beneficial and motivating because I am a person who has a strong desire to advocate for my fellow service members.
A truly transformative experience, the EANGUS Legislative Conference demonstrated the power of advocacy and the significance of making our voices heard. We must continue to support and acknowledge the sacrifices made by our National Guard members as citizens and service members by advocating for their well-being and providing them with the necessary care and resources. Just as I was inspired to do so, I urge everyone to take action and get involved in advocating for our service members.
