UCC at March for Our Lives FAQ

Updated March 13, 2018

We are so looking forward to seeing you at the March for our Lives on March 24th! The march route has been officially announced, so I have some updates for you as prepare to join us in DC. (If you  haven’t already, register to let us know you’re coming.)

UCC Meet-Up Time

The UCC Washington Office, in partnership with the UCC Central Atlantic Conference and the Capital Area Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), is excited to provide a hospitality space for gathering prior to the march. Please stop by the United Methodist Building anytime between 9:00-11:30am. We will provide breakfast fare and snacks to go, and have a sign-making station, along with you can carry. All are welcome!

(Please note: The United Methodist Building is located on Capitol Hill across from the U.S. Capitol and the next to the Supreme Court. We are convenient to two stations – Capitol South and Union Station. Parking is extremely limited and unlikely to be available on the day of the march.)

Photo Release

The UCC is sending a photographer/videographer to capture this important event. We will have photo release forms available at the United Methodist Building, but you can save some time by printing and signing your forms in advance. Download your forms and bring them with you.

(If you do NOT want to be on camera we will provide some signifier so you can identify yourself to the photographer/editor and we can make efforts to keep your image off camera or blurred.)

Engaging in Advocacy

Some our UCC youth are planning to come in early meet with their Senators and Members of Congress on the Friday before the march. If this is something you are interested in doing, you can use this link to identify your elected officials and find their contact information: http://p2a.co/Nmw4YqN

To prepare for your lobby visit, download our Public Policy Advocacy Guide. In it you will find tips for scheduling and holding a successful meeting. You can also visit our website to find more information on the UCC’s stances on gun violence.

March Program and Route

The official march program begins at noon and will take place on Pennsylvania Avenue, between 3rd and 12th street NW. It is an easy (downhill) walk from the United Methodist Building and a short ride to the accessibility drop-off point at the intersection of 7th Street and Maryland Ave SW. More information on the program and route can be found on the March for Our Lives website.

Be Prepared

We are expecting big crowds for the march, so here are a few tips for your time in DC:

  • Wear comfortable shoes and dress in layers. Right now the weather looks like it will be in the 50s, and standing outside for hours can get chilly. Keep an eye on the forecast and consider packing a poncho or rain gear if rain seems likely.
  • Pack a water bottle and be sure to stay hydrated.
  • The Metro will likely be the best way to get around the city. If you’re planning to take the Metro and you have access to a vendor before March 24th, consider purchasing your SmartTrip Card in advance, so you don’t have to wait in line to purchase a ticket when the stations are most crowded. You can download a Metro map here.)
  • Cell service may be hard to access in the crowd. If you’re in a group, plan a meet up spot in case you get separated. Consider printing or downloading a map of DC to your phone in advance so you have directions if you need them.
  • Small bags and backpacks are allowed, but cannot be larger than 18” x 13” x 7” – More information on what to bring (and not bring) is available on the march website.
  • Finally, join us in worship on Sunday! You can find a local congregation in DC, Virginia or Maryland via the UCC Potomac Association.

We are so looking forward to seeing you later this month. Travel safely, and if you have any questions, please contact Suanne Breen in our DC office at 202-543-1517 or breens@ucc.org.