On February 7, 2025, the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) held its annual Advocacy Day on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., in collaboration and support from the National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (NAEVR). This year’s event saw a record participation of over 70 advocates, including ARVO committee members, current and former Science Communication Training Fellows, and even several alumni of the Alliance for Eye and Vision Research’s (AEVR) Emerging Vision Scientists program. For the first time, ARVO’s Advocacy Day also included patient advocates, high school students, and medical students from Future Leaders in Sight (FLIS) who are passionate about the value and impact of vision research.

The advocates conducted over 80 meetings with elected officials, emphasizing the critical importance of sustained and increased federal funding for eye and vision research. They highlighted the significant impact of such research on public health, innovation, and the economy and shared the direct impact vision loss and vision impairment has on individuals. The diverse group of participants shared personal stories and professional insights, underscoring the necessity of continued investment in the National Eye Institute (NEI) and related programs

NAEVR is proud to support and collaborate with ARVO in these advocacy efforts, recognizing that such initiatives are vital for advancing vision research and ensuring better eye health for all Americans. The inclusion of patient advocates and students in this year’s Advocacy Day enriched the dialogue with policymakers, providing a comprehensive perspective on the challenges and opportunities in vision research.

We extend our gratitude to all participants for their dedication and commitment to advocating for vision research. Their efforts contribute significantly to raising awareness among policymakers about the essential role of federal funding in driving scientific discoveries and improving patient outcomes in the field of vision and ophthalmology.

NAEVR remains committed to supporting such advocacy initiatives and will continue to work alongside ARVO and other partners to promote policies that advance eye and vision research.