Published: Wednesday, May 11, 2022, 4:00 PM U.S. Eastern Time
Media Contact: Kara Flynn, 202.257.8424, press@ashg.org
ROCKVILLE, MD – Today, the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG) hosted its 2022 Capitol Hill Day bringing together 21 researchers, clinicians and other advocates from across the country to meet with key members of Congress and their staff to discuss shared priorities and build support for strong federal investment in scientific research. Due to the continued impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hill Day remained virtual for the second year in a row.
During this year’s event, ASHG advocates called upon Members of Congress to support three main policy points: the importance of robust funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to assist in promoting health and preventing disease, the need to diversify participation in human genetics research, and the benefits of responsible, broad data-sharing while maintaining research participant privacy.
“ASHG’s Capitol Hill Day is a wonderful opportunity for ASHG members to encourage congressional leaders to support biomedical research,” said ASHG Government & Public Advocacy Committee Incoming Chair, Cynthia Morton, PhD. “This day presents a unique opportunity for ASHG advocates to share their scientific expertise and educate members of Congress on challenges faced by the human genetics community.”
After the day concluded Dr. Morton shared her takeaways, stating the event was a great success yielding meaningful dialogues. “Meeting with our Congressional representatives continues to serve as a valuable experience for all who participate,” she said. “ASHG is grateful to the members of Congress and their staff members for taking time to hear about the extraordinary advances in human genetics and genomics research while recognizing the need for policies to support the scientific enterprise so that all people benefit from scientific discoveries.”
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About the American Society of Human Genetics (ASHG)
Founded in 1948, the American Society of Human Genetics is the primary professional membership organization for human genetics specialists worldwide. Its nearly 8,000 members include researchers, academicians, clinicians, laboratory practice professionals, genetic counselors, nurses, and others with an interest in human genetics. The Society serves scientists, health professionals, and the public by providing forums to: (1) share research results through the ASHG Annual Meeting and in The American Journal of Human Genetics and Human Genetics and Genomics Advances; (2) advance genetic research by advocating for research support; (3) educate current and future genetics professionals, health care providers, advocates, policymakers, educators, students, and the public about all aspects of human genetics; and (4) promote genetic services and support responsible social and scientific policies. For more information, visit: http://wptest.ashg.org.
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