Five questions about the American University Public Affairs Committee for its president, Jackie Grill:
1. What exactly do you do on the Hill in terms of advocacy?
Students involved with AUPAC for Israel understand the importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship. We go to the hill to advocate on behalf of this relationship and to urge our members of Congress to support a democracy and friend in the Middle East, Israel.
2. How did you get your start on the Hill?
Our days on the Hill come from hard work and personal relationships. Our students meet with members of the House and Senate in which we are constituents, and after our own research, explain the importance of the United States’ continued support of Israel. On our most recent trip, we had the opportunity to meet with staff members from the office of Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y., who let us know that they were sponsoring legislation that we were advocating for the creation of (the implementation of the Iran Sanctions passed earlier this summer). By having meetings like this, we know we have a friend to return to on the Hill, and continue to discuss the U.S.-Israel relationship with.
3. Why did you decide to advocate on the Hill?
Our organization feels that the most effective way to support Israel is by working with the people who vote on the issues concerning Israel, our legislators. By talking to our legislators we are showing our strong interest and passion in the subject matter as well as thanking our members for their continued support.
4. What effects have you seen from your advocacy work? What goals do you have?
Our advocacy missions have a dual purpose. First, our trips to the Hill allow our members to understand the opinions of their constituents, allowing us to really participate in our government. This is a pretty cool thing for college students and, as a secondary purpose, our trips to the Hill allow students to see the impact they can have. Students can see their true impact as they speak to a senator, congressmen or any staff members. It’s a great feeling to leave an office and know that what you have to say was not just listened to, but was processed and will be put into action.
5. What advice would you give to other student groups wishing to get more involved with advocacy work on the Hill?
Trips to the Hill are the most effective way to make a difference in federal legislation. If there is a specific issue that any organization is passionate about, they should tell their legislators the importance of it. It is only through meetings that members and their staff can learn what is important to their constituents and what they can do about it here in Washington.
“Five questions with Jackie Grill” is part of our “Five questions with ...” series where The Eagle asks various members of the AU community five questions about hot issues.
