Domestic violence (DV) advocates, survivors, allies, and community members from across the state are joining together on Monday, February 23 for the New York State Coalition Against Domestic Violence’s (NYSCADV’s) 2026 Advocacy Day. We are sending a resounding message to state lawmakers: thousands of New Yorkers experience domestic violence every day and on average 1,000 don’t receive the services they need. They require access to resources and services that can help them enhance their own safety, and the safety of their families, and rebuild their lives. By investing in critical, life-sustaining services, legislators can ensure survivors have the support they need to heal and move forward.  

New York State consistently has the highest demand for domestic violence services in the country. More than 10,000 survivors seek services each and every day. However, years of inadequate funding have prevented DV providers from serving all those in need. An annual one-day assessment in 2024 found that more than 1,700 people were denied services due to a lack of resources – an increase of 64% from 2023. This is unacceptable. New York must do better. It’s time for New York to STEP UP for DV.  

Reach out to your legislator on Monday, February 23rd and support NYSCADV’s 2026 Advocacy Day. We’re counting on YOU – survivors, advocates, coalition and community partners, legislators, and community members – to raise your voices!  

Identify who your representative is and find their contact page or email.

You can do that by visiting the following links:

Additional Resources

  • Tips for Effective Advocacy

    Strategize and Be Prompt: Legislators run on a very tight schedule, even when remote. Be on time and be patient.

    Tell Survivor Stories: Make it personal and district-specific. Narratives are a powerful advocacy tool that is often more impactful than statistics. 

    Keep it Short and Focused: Stress what’s important. Focus on what you are asking them to do.

    Difficult questions: Simply say, “I don’t know, but I can have someone follow up with you.”

    Make an ask: Don’t forget to make the ask and note any commitments they made.

    Thank everyone: Recognize everyone in the meeting and thank them for their time.

    Remember You Are The Expert

     

  • NYSCADV hosted an informational webinar on Wednesday, February 12 to review the Governor’s Executive Budget, NYSCADV’s budget & legislative priorities and basic lobbying tips to help you prepare for your legislative visits.

    This link will navigate to NYSCADV's Coalition Manager website. You must use your Coalition Manager login information to access the resources. All staff of primary-purpose domestic violence programs in New York State are eligible for a Coalition Manager account. Please contact your supervisor or program administrator to set up a coalition manager account. If you need additional assistance, please complete a CM Support Ticket, by visiting this weblink: https://nyscadv.coalitionmanager.org/formmanager/formsubmission/create?formId=1175