Q and A on Lobby Days With Lindsay Polega

LWVSPA’s First Vice President has some great thoughts to share on reasons to go, why the experience is so rewarding, and its profound beneficial impact on her own engagement and understanding.

Why have you gone up to Lobby Days?

To learn firsthand how the Florida Legislature works and better understand the process when advocating.
To represent the League’s priorities and speak directly with lawmakers on issues like voter rights, gun safety, education, reproductive rights, and environmental justice.
To show up physically in Tallahassee — because “true activism is as simple as showing up” and being present where decisions are made.
To connect with League members from across Florida and learn from seasoned advocates.

What did you find most enjoyable about the experience? Most inspiring?

The opportunity to meet and work with members from all over the state — from students to longtime League advocates — and build community.

Watching the League’s nonpartisan reputation open doors — legislators and staff respect and engage with League advocates, often offering encouragement once they see the League has arrived.
Seeing younger members speak up, learning the patience and willpower of seasoned advocates, and recognizing how activism can take many forms.

What were your favorite events/moments?

Meeting with legislators in person and learning what our community can do to better support their initiatives, and knowing that the League’s priorities made it directly to our representative, not lost in an inbox or mailbox.
Informal moments — like sharing experiences with other League members — that build solidarity and deepen personal commitment to the League’s mission.
Turning a casual conversation in the hotel lobby bar into a meaningful moment after being asked to by a group of never-before voters staying at the hotel to explain the League and our event. After our conversation, they enthusiastically shared their barriers to voting, and we were able to assist in getting them registered for the very first time!

What sort of impact do you feel our presence has on the Legislative Session?

Legislators and their staff pay attention when League members show up because the League is seen as a respected, nonpartisan voice on democracy and public policy.
Talking directly to legislators helps humanize the League’s priorities and ensures that lawmakers hear from engaged citizens, not just interest groups.
Even if a bill doesn’t pass as desired, League participation puts issues on the radar and builds longer-term awareness and relationships that can matter in future sessions.

How has the experience affected/enriched you?

Attending deepened my understanding of the legislative process and makes them more effective advocates in their local communities.
It was beautiful to witness how informed citizens can influence public policy, and to know that my research, experiences, and communications were a small part of shaping Florida policy.
Lobby Days was a formative political experience for me — it was incredible to see activism in action, and gain a better appreciation for the patience and persistence necessary to influence change. While I have always been an advocate, I never saw myself as someone whose voice could carry to those in the seats effectuating political change. While the League is not partisan, it is very much political. I am a better advocate because I know that I can be a changemaker.

What would you say to a fellow member who hasn’t yet gone but is thinking about it?

Do it at least once! — you’ll learn more about the legislative process than you ever could from afar.
You’ll feel empowered and connected. Meeting legislators and fellow League members energizes you for local advocacy year-round.
Your voice matters. Even one-on-one conversations and dropping off materials can make a difference and help lawmakers understand the League’s positions.
You will feel more confident and prepared to advocate locally after attending, and not just at the state Capitol